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April 25, 2025 marks the 30th year of the legendary ANZAC Day AFL showdown between Collingwood and Essendon at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). This iconic fixture is not only a highlight of the AFL season but a deeply symbolic tribute to the brave individuals who served and continue to serve in Australia and New Zealand’s armed forces.
đź•’ Full Schedule of ANZAC Day Events at the MCG
The day’s events have been carefully designed to reflect the gravity and honor of ANZAC Day while delivering one of the most anticipated football spectacles of the year:
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2:24 PM – Veterans' Motorcade begins
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2:35 PM – Live music performance by Pete Murray
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2:51 PM – Umpires enter the stadium with the match ball
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2:53 PM – Essendon players enter the arena
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2:56 PM – Collingwood takes the field
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2:58 PM – A united banner run-through symbolizing sportsmanship
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3:06 PM – ANZAC Commemorative Service at the MCG
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3:17 PM – Roulettes aerial flyover
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3:18 PM – Coin toss
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3:20 PM – First bounce and match kickoff
These ceremonies blend tradition with national pride, drawing thousands to the stadium and millions to their screens.
đź“ş Where to Watch Collingwood vs Essendon Live
If you're not among the 90,000+ at the MCG today, there are multiple options to catch the game live:
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Channel 7 (Free-to-air TV)
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7plus (Online stream)
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Fox Footy (For subscribers)
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Kayo Sports (Streaming platform)
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Binge (On-demand access)
⏰ Broadcast begins at 3:00 PM AEST, with pre-game analysis and coverage starting earlier.
đź”´ Watch the Live Stream Below
Can’t access TV or paid platforms? No worries. Watch the game via this embedded YouTube stream:
🏟️ Match Day Atmosphere & Player Highlights
As the crowd packs into the MCG, early highlights are already setting the tone. Nick Daicos opened the scoreboard with a swift goal for Collingwood, followed by a sharp finish from Tim Membrey.
Despite Essendon being down key ruckmen like Nick Bryan and Sam Draper, Todd Goldstein is stepping up in his veteran role, showing the kind of grit that defines ANZAC Day footy.
🌦️ Weather Forecast at the G
Melbourne’s skies are overcast today with a strong chance of afternoon showers. Visitors are advised to pack ponchos or umbrellas and expect wet turf conditions as the game progresses.
🏆 Why This Game Matters Beyond Football
This year's match honors the 30th anniversary of the Collingwood-Essendon ANZAC Day tradition. The inaugural 1995 clash—ending in a dramatic draw—sparked a legacy that’s grown into one of the most revered fixtures in the AFL calendar.
It serves not only as a battle between two historic clubs but as a tribute to sacrifice, unity, and national pride.
