Kaizer Chiefs defender Njabulo Blom has stressed the importance of claiming a positive result against Orlando Pirates in the Telkom Knockout Cup quarter-finals on Saturday.

The 19-year-old made his debut against Golden Arrows but showed his quality against Sundowns while playing a vital role throughout the game to help his side secure maximum points.

The versatile defender could be used in the right-back position as he did against Sundowns after Reeve Frosler was forced off through injury.

Having grown up in Soweto supporting Amakhosi is well aware of the historical importance of a clash between Chiefs and Pirates.

‘When I was younger, we would all get together in my house and watch the Soweto derby. Everyone dressed up in their team’s colours, the family was split down the middle with some supporting Chiefs and others Pirates. It was always a special occasion, personally, I was always a Chiefs fan,’ Blom told his club’s official website.

‘This is a huge game historically and it is celebrated by all South Africans. it will mean a lot to me if I could play a part in the game.

‘This game is like no other in South African soccer. Two teams with a rich history coming together. I know our supporters leave everything to come and watch us, so it is very important for us to get a good result on Saturday.’

Despite the hype surrounding his recent performances for Chiefs, Blom insists that he is solely focused on the finer details which will help his team be successful.

‘It is vital for us to focus in training and train the way we always do,’ he added.

‘The game against Arrows was the most challenging for me because it was my first professional game. I was nervous but the other guys helped me out and got me to settle in well. It was the kind of game which could have made me or broke me. Thanks to God my performance was good. We won and it has motivated me and helped me believe in my abilities.’

The match at the Moses Mabhida Stadium kicks off at 3pm.