The Serbian-born coach was addressing the press conference at Nelson Mandela Stadium ahead of what promises to be thrill-a-minute encounter between Soweto giants, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.

The match regarded as one of the top derbies in the world, will kick off at 20:15.

“It is our objective at Chiefs to win to defend Vodacom Challenge.

We are quite aware that we have to do well on Thursday night when we meet Orlando Pirates.

I had an opportunity to watch their game against Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday night and they look aggressive.

We are ready and looking forward to the game,” said Vermezovic.

Meanwhile Eastern Cape Sport, Recreation, Arts & Culture Head of Department, Mzolisi Matutu urged fans to fill the Nelson Mandela Stadium on Thursday evening.

“The game could not have happened at a better time when the Nelson Mandela Metro, the Eastern Cape as a province having celebrated the birthday of one of its favourite sons, Nelson Mandela.

We are honoured to be hosting South Africa’s two biggest Clubs in Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates and I would like to urge the fans to come in numbers on Thursday.”

Matutu also revealed to kaizerchiefs.com that the Eastern Cape will be approaching Nelson Mandela Metro for the optimal use of the stadium, Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, “It is an interest of everyone to ensure the optimum use of the stadium.”

“If you go around the townships here you will see how passionate people are about football and bringing the two Clubs to the province also serves as an inspiration to the children in this province.

I have no doubt that the province has more Siyabulela Songwiqi’s and Andile Jali’s,” added Matutu.