Kaizer Chiefs coach Ernst Middendorp revealed that he is looking forward to the battle against his opposing coach Pitso Mosimane when Chiefs take on Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday afternoon.

Middendorp took over at Chiefs following the dismissal of Giovanni Solinas at the beginning of December, and has guided the Soweto giants to three wins in three.

With Chiefs seemingly undergoing a revival under the experienced coach,  Mosimane has been led to praise the German coach’s abilities in the buildup to the clash.

The former Bafana Bafana coach stated that Middendorp’s teams were always structured properly in their play, making them difficult opponents.

The former Bloemfontein Celtic coach was then asked about Mosimane’s favourable comments at a media day held at Naturena during the week.

‘Yeah, it’s always a pleasure [coming up against Mosimane], and I think that shows respect in both directions,’ responded the German tactician.

‘It’s a pleasure to have competitive games with a coach like Pitso.

‘I’m enjoying it very much and let’s wait and see. He has ideas and I have ideas. We know each other from over the years and … yeah, good.’

Chiefs head into the encounter one point and one position behind the defending Absa Premiership champions. Downs have, however, played three games less than Amakhosi and would be looking to get three points to climb the table, while Chiefs will be looking to get their title charge back on track.

Kick-off at the FNB Stadium is scheduled for 3:30pm on Saturday.

Photo: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix