“We are focused and we will do our best to win the match tomorrow,” says Kaizer Chiefs coach Stuart Baxter as he walks off the pitch after a light final training session on Friday afternoon.

Arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates will continue their rivalry in an Absa Premiership Derby match at the FNB Stadium this Saturday afternoon, kick-off at 15:30.

Looking at his charges as some stay on the pitch, held up by the desire to sharpen their tricks ahead of the humdinger waiting to happen, Baxter notes with appreciation: “I am pleased that the lads look sharper than ever, really sharp, I must say.”

Baxter is happy to see his team picking up the momentum they enjoyed before going into the break due to the festive season and the Africa Cup of Nations: “We have a few games under our belt now, we are regrouped and finding our rhythm. Against Pirates, just like last Wednesday against Ajax, we have no divided attention. We need to win to gain the three points at stake.”

“We continue to rotate the squad,” concludes Baxter. “Of course, we will field a good squad, as usual. Preparation is key, we prepared well for this game. This is a massive event but we will not be destructed by the hype of the occasion. We will keep the focus. We have a full strength squad. Josta Dladla is back in training, but we will not rush him back to play tomorrow.”

Amakhosi go into the Soweto Derby placed first on the Absa Premiership log with 50 points from 21 matches. The Buccaneers are in fourth position with 36 points from 21 matches.