Kaizer Chiefs co-head coach Khalil Ben Youssef has issued a bold warning to Orlando Pirates ahead of Orlando Pirates.
The Amakhosi coach insists that they have a completely different team ready to challenge the Buccaneers.
They were humiliated 3-0 by Pirates earlier this season at FNB Stadium, capping off a disastrous run.
At the time, pressure was mounting on the technical team, with questions over whether Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze would survive the campaign.
But fast forward to now — and the narrative has changed. Kaizer Chiefs have turned their season around in emphatic fashion.
They have gone on a five-match winning streak and put themselves firmly on track for a top-three finish in the Betway Premiership.
“In the first game we were in a bad moment. Now there is a big difference,” said Ben Youssef during Thursday’s media conference.
“The team has performed very well in the last six games — five wins and one draw. In a derby, the team that makes fewer mistakes and wants it more will win.”
A key factor behind the resurgence has been stability in selection, with injuries no longer disrupting the squad.
“In February we had many injuries, and it’s difficult to build consistency like that,” he explained.
“Now we have had the same team for several games. When there is consistency, performances and results follow.”
Kaizer Chiefs’ attacking unit has also come alive, netting 12 goals during their winning run.
Players like Wandile Duba, Mduduzi Shabalala, Glody Lilepo and Flavio Da Silva will be key as they look to settle the score.
Despite sitting 12 points behind Pirates, Chiefs have a firm grip on third place and are edging closer to CAF Confederation Cup qualification.
But for Ben Youssef, Sunday is about more than just points — it’s about pride.
“We don’t have fans, we have a family,” he said. “This is the moment to give them joy again. We want to make them proud and continue fighting until the end.”
With form, confidence, and revenge on their minds, Amakhosi are heading into the derby with renewed belief — and a point to prove.