The Pies take on the red-hot Hawthorn Hawks at the G to open the AFL’s Round 8 action.

 Hawthorn will look to continue their six-match winning streak against a Collingwood side who dominated last week – albeit against Essendon.

The Hawks made a more compelling statement last week, decimating the Suns 112-63 in Tassie.

Jack Gunston continued his incredible run of form, booting five goals and moving up to second on the 2026 Coleman Medal tally.

Meanwhile, Collingwood legend Scott Pendlebury wound back the clock, putting on an historic performance on ANZAC day against Essendon.

He finished the match with career-highs in both disposals and score involvements. Pendles also snagged two goals as cherries on top of a legacy-defining performance.  

Although at 38, old man Pendles is likely to be rested for this week’s clash, while the Hawks will regain Dylan Moore and co-captain James Sicily from their respective suspensions.

With both clubs riding high on confidence we’re in for a banger of a match at the MCG on Thursday night.

For the latest team news, analysis, and expert insights, check out our Collingwood vs Hawthorn Round 8 prediction and preview below.

Collingwood Magpies vs Hawthorn Hawks Prediction and Betting Tips

Head-to-Head Prediction

Sure, the Pies looked like world-beaters on ANZAC Day, but there was a significant lack of resistance coming from the mob in the red sash. Fool’s gold is too strong, but you get our drift.

We are not at all back in love with Collingwood, despite them scoring 137 points last weekend.

This will be a far sterner test with Hawthorn, the in-form team of the competition, back on the MCG. Sam Mitchell’s men are in sync, fit, and firing on all cylinders.

There’s even a world where these Hawks run the Pies off the turf and get into cricket score areas.

The Collingwood backline will need to pack some aspirin with their footy boots; because guys like Moore, Ginnivan, Mackenzie, Macdonald and Watson will be causing headaches all night.

While it's yet to be confirmed, it's expected the Pies will rest Scott Pendlebury given the five-day turnaround, but Darcy Moore has recovered from a hamstring injury and looks set to return.

Meanwhile, James Sicily and Dylan Moore have both served a one-match ban and will be available for selection.

We think the Hawks’ speed and recent historical dominance in high-scoring games will be the difference.

Head-to-head prediction: Hawthorn Hawks by 23 points.

First Goal Scorer Prediction

Jack Gunston is in a vintage vein of form, having already bagged 24 goals this season. He is the primary target in a Hawthorn forward line that thrives on chaotic, fast-paced entry.

With his reliable set shot and high footy IQ, we expect Gunners to find space early and open the account for the Hawks.

Betting tip: Jack Gunston.

Most Disposals Prediction

Another Collingwood game, another Nick Daicos prediction.

The AFL’s favourite son is averaging 32 disposals in 2026 and with Pendles out, the Pies’ reliance on Daicos goes to another level.

Even on his worst night Daicos is everywhere; not only on the field but literally all over the AFL’s Instagram account.

Nick Daicos is undoubtedly the frontrunner in this match again – if you’re looking for a value bet, Jai Newcombe has been in great nick this year too.

Betting tip: Nick Daicos or Jai Newcombe.

Odds are subject to change.*

Collingwood Magpies vs Hawthorn Hawks Predicted Teams

Collingwood Magpies Predicted Team List

FB: Billy Frampton, Isaac Quaynor, Brayden Maynard

HB: Dan Houston, Darcy Moore (c), Harry Perryman

C: Wil Parker, Nick Daicos, Roan Steele

HF: Lachie Schultz, Jordan De Goey, Beau McCreery

F: Tim Membrey, Jamie Elliott, Dan McStay

FOLL: Darcy Cameron, Jack Crisp, Nick Long

I/C: Patrick Lipinski, Steele Sidebottom, Ed Allan, Ned Long, Jack Buller

Hawthorn Hawks Predicted Team List

FB: Josh Weddle, Tom Barrass, Jarman Impey

HB: Massimo D’Ambrosio, James Sicily (c), Blake Hardwick

C: Karl Amon, Conor Nash, Josh Ward

HF: Nick Watson, Dylan Moore, Jack Ginnivan

F: Jack Gunston, Mabior Chol, Connor Macdonald

FOLL: Lloyd Meek, Jai Newcombe, Cam Mackenzie

I/C: Jack Scrimshaw, Ned Reeves, Harry Morrison, Sam Butler, Mitch Lewis

Collingwood Magpies vs Hawthorn Hawks Match Details

Date: Thursday, April 30, 2026.

First Bounce: 7:30pm AEST.

Location: MCG, Melbourne.

How to Watch: Channel 7, Fox Footy/Kayo Sports.