Papi Zothwane braced for Kaizer Chiefs derby backlash

The Natal Rich Boyz welcome Amakhosi to the Umhlathuze Sports Complex on Wednesday evening, with the Soweto giants hurting not only from the Derby but also their CAF Confederation Cup and Nedbank Cup exits in recent weeks. 

Zothwane believes that run of results makes Chiefs even more dangerous as they chase an immediate response on the road tomorrow. 

"One we are playing against a very big team that has just lost two games in a row, and obviously they want to bounce back, but they can't bounce back at our expense," said Zothwane.

"The last time we won at home was against AmaZulu in December, so we want to win."

READ: Kaze puts ball in Chiefs court following Derby humiliation

The former Mamelodi Sundowns attacking midfielder says they are not certain around the Chiefs starting eleven following the derby defeat, but expects changes in personnel or approach.  

"We're expecting a very difficult match, not knowing who they are going to play because of their last performance against Pirates, but we are ready," he added.

"The players are ready because they know what is expected – we are on 20 points and we want to go to 23 points, so yeah, it's going to be a tough match but, as a team, we are all ready for the match."

Zothwane admits their own build-up has not been seamless after travelling back from North West on Sunday following a goalless draw against 15th-placed Orbit College at Olympia Park Stadium.  

"Preparation for Chiefs is not one of the best because yesterday it was for travelling and today it's only recovery, and tomorrow we are playing the match."