Nedbank Cup Last 32

Black Leopards v Kaizer Chiefs

23 February 2014, 15h00

Peter Mokaba Stadium

Each game is vital

2013 Nedbank Cup champions the Amakhosi will start their title defense when they face Black Leopards at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Sunday, 23 February 2014, kick-off at 15h00.

Chiefs who beat SuperSport United 1-0 in last year’s final to land their 13th National Cup title, find themselves competing on three fronts as they compete in the domestic league, the CAF Champions League and the Nedbank Cup.

Coach Baxter said there is no easy task for Chiefs and Black Leopards will not be taken lightly.

"We are back to the Nedbank Cup. Each game is vital in its own way. We will continue to rotate the players. You don't rotate or rest the players to weaken the Team. You hope the players that are selected, whoever and for whichever position will be prepared to do the job," said Baxter.

The clubs have met in 21 official league and cup matches since 2001/02 and the Soweto giants have claimed 12 wins compared to just five victories for the Limpopo side.

"One hopes that the playing principles you set, everyone in the squad understands them well. So if for example Killer (Katlego Mphela) starts against Leopards, that's not weakening the Team. It is rotating of resources in order to get some fresh legs in the game. The rotation of the players is no way a sign of disrespect to any of our opponents," commented Baxter.

"Kingston (Nkhatha) will not take part as he is suspended for the accumulation of four bookings. Tsepo (Masilela) has started running and I guess the Leopards game will be the last match to miss. Tsepo will be back in full training after this game, he is close to returning," said Baxter, referring to his personnel.

Leopards are former runners-up of the Nedbank 2011 brawn by Orlando Pirates in the final.

Chiefs have been in superb form of late, winning 10 of their last 11 league matches as well as securing progression into the first round of the Champions League.