Striker Justice Sithole is also doubtful with an ankle injury while defender Nhlanhla Kubeka will require a late fitness test.

Ezenkosi will come face to face with their Coca-Cola Cup conquerors for the first time since November 24. On that occasion Cosmos left the FNB Stadium with their tails between their legs after a 5-0 hammering.

Amakhosi were red hot then and demolished almost everything that came their way.

But things have changed since then as Chiefs are now battling to regain their magic touch. Following a nine-game winless streak, Amakhosi started their revival with wins against Golden Arrows and Free State Stars last week.

While Cosmos appear to have dropped out of the championship race, seventh-placed Chiefs may still fancy their chances. The Glamour Boys have collected 32 points from 21 games while Cosmos have managed 28 points from 20 matches.

The Johannesburg derby between the two is sure to ignite Ellis Park given the developing rivalry between Chiefs and Cosmos.

Amakhosi emerged victorious last season in the April 7 clash against Ezenkosi at Ellis Park, with former strikers Siyabonga Nomvete and Tony Illodigwe scoring the only goals on the night. It was sweet revenge for Chiefs following the 2-1 first-round defeat in which two players from Chiefs and one from Cosmos were sent off in an ill-tempered affair.

It was Chiefs who drew first blood in the battle of kings when they thrashed Cosmos 5-0 in the Coca-Cola Cup. Ezenkosi did not take that humiliation lightly and vowed to return the favour in the next meeting.

As Cosmos hit the road on Sunday for a clash with Classic in Thembisa, Chiefs will still be at home against improving Ria Stars on Saturday.

On Wednesday high-riding Sundowns will be at home to Bush Bucks as they mount a serious challenge on the league championship. Spirits must be high in the Brazilians' camp following their overwhelming 3-0 win against title-chasers Moroka Swallows.

Meanwhile, the Urban Warriors will still be in a somber mood when they host Wits University following their 3-2 loss against SuperSport United on Sunday while Wits will be fired up after their 1-0 win against Swallows last week.