Kaizer Chiefs defender Philani Zulu is wary of the threat that Bidvest Wits pose, despite their struggling form ahead of the two sides’ Telkom Knockout semi-final clash.

The former Maritzburg United man acknowledged Wits’ poor domestic showing, but maintains that they are a quality side.

‘Wits might not be doing well in the league, but this is a cup clash,’ he told his club’s official website.

‘That’s always different, as that’s a once-off. It will be the game of the season so far.’

Zulu has slotted in well in the absence of veteran defender Tsepo Masilela, and the 25-year-old admits that there was an adjustment period.

‘It wasn’t easy at first, especially because of my lack of game time last season.

‘However, the support I got from coach Steve Komphela helped a lot, as well as the immense passion I have for the game of football – it kept me going.

‘At Chiefs, you are expected to win trophies, which is not really the case at Maritzburg.

‘Opponents always give 100% when they play us. It will be tough, as they are last year’s league champions.

‘They have a formidable side. Saturday’s match will be a final before the final,’ he concluded.

The two sides clash at the Bidvest Stadium on Saturday 18 November, with kick-off set for 15:30.

Photo: Muzi Ntombela/Backpagepix