Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Willard Katsande expects Mamelodi Sundowns to field their strongest team when the two sides meet in the Shell Helix Ultra Cup on Saturday.

The Glamour Boys are set to take Sundowns on in a mouthwatering encounter at FNB Stadium.

Amakhosi will then square off against Bloemfontein Celtic in the annual iTau Macufe Cup at the Free State Stadium on Sunday, with kick-off scheduled for 3pm.

Kantsande believes that their upcoming clash with Pitso Mosimane’s side will be a perfect way for his side to maintain their fitness during the Fifa international break.

‘This cup is the perfect way for us to keep in match shape,’ Katsande told his club’s official website. ‘We have been doing well recently and we don’t want to lose our momentum and it is good to have this fixture against Sundowns. We going to approach it in a competitive way and give the fans something to shout about.

‘Like I said, we need a team, not a squad. It is good for some of the guys to get game time in their legs and when duty calls you do your best and try to take the team to the next level; in front of a big crowd it is the best way to test yourself. Over time you will get injuries and we will need to draw on the entire squad – that is why games like this are important.

‘This is a big fixture between us and Sundowns and I know they will bring their strongest team. This will make the game very tough, challenging and competitive.’

Katsande says he is happy with the way Amakhosi have been performing so far this campaign and will be hoping his side can maintain their current form.

‘We have begun well and have had some good performances recently. Consistency will be key for us to achieve what we want. There is always room for improvement,’ he added.

‘We need to stay humble and continue working hard. I do feel that with the squad we have and with the way things have gone so far we will still be competing with the front-runners come May.’

The Shell Helix Ultra Cup match will take place on Saturday at the FNB Stadium at 4pm. Tickets are available from Computicket and Shoprite/Checkers stores.