Arthur Zwane adopts 'underdog' tag in Nedbank Cup semi-final Soweto Derby

This is despite Chiefs' dominance over the last five competitive derbies – all of which they have won with an aggregate scoreline of seven goals to Pirates' two.

Though The Buccaneers will have their tails up, given their recent form leading up to Saturday's encounter at FNB Stadium, Zwane believes this all-or-nothing clash requires a particular focus.

"Look, we all know that games like this are always difficult for everyone. They are also unpredictable. So, as things stand, I think Pirates are doing very well, and we'll be coming into this game as underdogs," said Zwane.

"So, ja, the only thing that's left for us is to redeem ourselves and go into FNB Stadium with one thing in our minds – to go there, give our best, and make sure that we become victorious."

Psychologically, both sides have confidence to carry into the encounter – be it from recent form or head-to-head advantages, making for an even more intriguing affair come the weekend.

"No, there is no doubt Pirates have been doing very well, they've won about six games on the trot [prior to Wednesday's 1-1 draw against Royal AM], if I'm not mistaken, and they are oozing confidence," said Zwane.

"They are coming into this game knowing very well that they are also playing against a Kaizer Chiefs that is wounded, so we'll give our best, and we're also going to FNB to win the game, nothing else."

Though Amakhosi suffered a shock 2-1 defeat to Swallows FC on Monday, Mangethe argues the Derby brings out a different beast.

"Look, losing every time before the Derby counts for nothing, to be quite honest. It's a different ball game altogether – why I'm saying that, we all know that you can't rely on history," he defended.

"It's [about] how we're going to apply ourselves, and also what Pirates are going to bring to us, so it's not going to be an easy game."