Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz believes the Amakhosi are ready for the challenge posed by Mamelodi Sundowns in Saturday’s Betway Premiership showdown.

READ: Miguel: Chiefs Must Respect Sundowns Without Fearing Them

The Glamour Boys are preparing for a tough showing against Sundowns when they meet at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg.

Amakhosi come into this fixture after claiming back-to-back wins in the Betway Premiership against Kruger United and Sekhukhune United.

READ: Velebayi Confident Chiefs Can Rise to Sundowns Test

Da Cruz insists his side must remain calm, focused and raise their level to match them in what he expects to be a “Champions League” standard encounter.

“For me, it is easier to prepare for these types of games because the motivation is natural for players,” says Da Cruz.

“But I don’t want the players to play this game before the game happens at 3pm (on Saturday).

“We need to keep our mind very cold and just be focused on our performance,” he says, noting the preparation time.

“We don’t have a lot of time but need to be focused on Mamelodi Sundowns now.

“We have analysed them, but we know that it will be a tough game, and from our squad and our technical staff, it will be for us to push our level to be the same and make it a Champions League game.”

He added: “The difference that’s there between Chiefs and Sundowns is that players at Sundowns have played together for the long time.

“Also their coach has been there for the long time. Meanwhile, I have just arrived and I’m applying my game model on the field.

“Yes, the players are understanding very well but we need time. So, it will be two different styles of football. But don’t worry, the team will be ready.”