Kaizer Chiefs attacking midfielder Hendrick Ekstein expects a tough and competitive game against Free State Stars in the Nedbank Cup semi-final on Saturday.

The 27-year-old has been in fine form in recent weeks, hitting the winner against Platinum Stars in their 1-0 victory last Sunday, which earned him a second Man of the Match award.

Ekstein says his side are ready to take on Ea Lla Koto in the hope of reaching the final and claiming their first piece of silverware this season.

‘It won’t be easy,’ Ekstein told his club’s official website. ‘But we will work hard to progress to the final. It’s our aim to win the Nedbank Cup.’

‘They are a tough team to play against. We only beat them recently thanks to a late goal in the 94th minute. It promises to be a competitive match, but we will be ready.

‘We enjoy playing in Durban,’ he added. ‘We usually get good support there. We want to make our supporters happy and grab this opportunity to reach a cup final with both hands. We will try our level best to win this trophy.’

The Gauteng-born attacker says he is working closely with assistant coach Patrick Mabedi to help him improve his performance.

‘I put in extra work at training to help improve my finishing, usually with our assistant coach, Patrick Mabedi,’ he added.

‘I always see the trophies when entering the room at home. Seeing those trophies motivates me to work harder and win even more.’

Kaizer Chiefs will host Free State Stars at Moses Mabhida Stadium when the two side’s lock horns in the Nedbank Cup on Saturday, with kick-off set for 8:15pm.