“Black Leopards are always tricky,” Kaizer Chiefs striker Katlego Mphela says about Saturday’s Nedbank Cup Last 16 encounter.

Amakhosi struggled last season against Lidoda Duvha in a Nedbank Cup Last 32 match, only to win thanks to a goal in extra time by Knowledge Musona.

“At the time, they didn’t look too concerned at scoring themselves,” adds Mphela. “However, this year they are doing well in the First Division and they have in Zeca Marques an experienced coach. Leopards haven’t lost a game this year.”

Mphela has started the last two matches for Amakhosi, against Morocco’s Raja Casablanca (1-0 loss) and against Moroka Swallows (3-0 win). They are the only two official games the striker has started so far this season.

“Of course, that’s a nice feeling,” reacts the striker, who was long on the sidelines due to an injury. “I am improving with each match. I also feel getting stronger and stronger physically.”

Mphela has scored two goals this season, both coming in Cup games. The last was in the 4-0 win over Edu Sports in the previous Nedbank Cup round.

“I try to help the team play good football,” the striker stresses. “As the number 9 I have to link up with the midfield and help create chances for my teammates. The way I play now has taken away some of the pressure on Bernard Parker. I am not worried about scoring myself. My job is to work for the team.”

Amakhosi won the MTN8 earlier this season. Meanwhile, Chiefs are on top of the Absa Premiership log and the Nedbank Cup is another trophy to play for.

“Every Cup match is important,” concludes Mphela. “We take it game by game - we soldier on, we fight. We can still win the treble this season. As a team, that’s our target.”

Tickets are sold at Computicket and Shoprite/Checkers at R80 for the grandstand, R40 for Open stand and R10 for children under the age of 12.