“We are optimistic,” assures coach Steve Komphela ahead of this afternoon’s MTN8 final. “To us, it’s work in progress. This is a huge occasion, but it doesn't change our focus on the bigger picture.”

The clash between Kaizer Chiefs and Ajax Cape Town will be the 21st Top 8 final of the Amakhosi. In the 20 Top 8 finals played so far, Chiefs won 15, an incredible record. Orlando Pirates participated in 16 Top 8 finals, winning 10. The Urban Warriors have yet to win the Top 8 trophy, losing twice in the final.

“The preparations went well,” comments Komphela. “We were able to sample a few tactics for the game. I see the same focus I have witnessed since joining the team at the beginning of the season. The only difference I can pin point to is that the intensity of the application from my players is at an all-time high. That tells you something about the confidence in the team.”

Daniel Cardoso, David Zulu, Simphiwe Mtsweni and Philani Cele are all ruled out due to injury and won’t feature in Saturday afternoon’s cup final.

Meanwhile, Sibongiseni Ngcobo, Andisiwe Mtsila, Levy Mokgothu and Bongani Ndulula will be getting game time in Sunday’s MultiChoice Diski Challenge fixture between Chiefs’ Reserves and Mamelodi Sundowns. They haven’t travelled to Port Elizabeth.

“We know how we got to the final,” concludes Komphela. “We have also seen the results in our past games and we plan to continue with the same process.”

The MTN8 final is a sold out affair. The match will be played at Port Elizabeth’s Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium (kick-off is at 15:00).