Jordan De Goey's return to form should send shivers down the spines of rival clubs as the top eight sides prepare for a September assault.
De Goey's past 18 months have been marred by various injuries, which have subsequently been put to bed following his 26-disposal, one-goal performance in Round 24 against Melbourne.
"He's really had to do it the hard way this season. He's had a lot of setbacks – he hasn't had any real continuity in the team, and he's had to work super hard basically from January, at the start of the year, to get back," Collingwood captain Darcy Moore said.
The Pies' matchwinner has proven time and time again his ability to stand up in the big moments, starting in 2018 when he kicked 12 goals, including three in the decider.
He backed that up in the 2020 elimination final against West Coast, and was a dominant force through the 2022 and 2023 finals series.
"He had a great game last week, which sets him up really well for a massive final series," Collingwood captain Darcy Moore said.
"We know, and he knows what he's capable of in the finals, so we're looking forward to him delivering."
Collingwood is anticipating a hostile crowd when they travel to South Australia to take on Adelaide in Thursday's qualifying final.
The last six encounters have been decided by 10 points or less, with the Crows finally tipping the score in their favour two weeks ago at the same venue.
But Moore, who will lead the underdog Collingwood outfit, says the club takes full confidence it can cause an upset.
"We've got huge belief in what we do. [Travelling to] Adelaide holds absolutely no fears for us," Moore said.
"I don't have any interest in how much pressure is on Adelaide or isn't. Our focus is very much on us and what we're going to achieve."
Moore also spoke on the prospect of Bobby Hill returning to the senior side.
Hill has featured once at senior level since Round 15 as the substitute against Brisbane (Round 22), but has been absent due to personal reasons.
The 2023 Norm Smith medallist was seen at training on Friday.
"His well-being is definitely the priority for us at the moment, and he trained really well today, and that's really encouraging," Moore said.
"What that looks like going forward, I'm not sure."
Recently anointed MVP and Collingwood superstar Nick Daicos was also in awe of Hill's return to the club, saying it was great to get him back.
"(Hill) was awesome, I think if you watch training you realise how electric he is, it's great to have him back and in great spirits," Daicos said.
"We love having Bobby inside the four walls, he's such a joyful person (but) it's a day-by-day process with Bob, and it's been great seeing him train so well.
"I think so (extra motivated), I think he's really enjoying his footy and I think the main thing for us is he's got a smile on his face and he's joking around inside the club."
However, a watch will be on speedster Beau McCreery, who has a sore foot.
The Pies also confirmed the extensions of Jeremy Howe and Steele Sidebottom.
