“It’s going to be a tricky match,” comments coach Ernst Middendorp about Saturday’s night match at FNB Stadium. “Baroka are under threat of relegation and will be coming here to cause an upset.”

Middendorp feels upbeat, obviously boosted by the emphatic win and great performance last weekend against Cape Town City. Kaizer Chiefs won the Nedbank Cup quarterfinal 2-0 to progress to the semis.

“Forget other aspects of the game of football,” continued the Amakhosi coach. “We have to keep up the tempo and go into this match with the right mentality. However, I am happy with our training sessions the past week, the players are showing great attitude. The spirit and energy in the camp is good and we want to keep it that way.”

Leonardo Castro and Khama Billiat were nursing injuries this week and will undergo a late fitness test.

“Maritzburg United won last night,” says Middendorp. “It means that the difference between Baroka and Maritzburg at the bottom of the log is now only one point. So Baroka desperately need the points.”

Kaizer Chiefs are eying the three points as well, especially to get closer to the top three on the Absa Premiership log.

“We are looking forward to kick-off time,” concludes Middendorp. “Baroka are well-known for collecting points on the road. They’ve proven to be tough visitors, but we have devised a plan to beat them.

“They have good players though, including nippy and fast wingers. We are ready to counter them with our planned strategy.”

Kick-off for the Absa Premiership fixture between Chiefs and Baroka is at 18:00.