The clash marks the first league meeting between the arch-rivals this season and revives memories of May 2025, when Chiefs edged Pirates to lift the Nedbank Cup. But both sides arrive under pressure this time, each desperate to steady the ship after recent setbacks.

Chiefs endured frustration in the CAF Confederation Cup against Zamalek SC before stumbling domestically against Stellenbosch. Pirates, meanwhile, saw their momentum dented by a league defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns and a shock cup exit to Motsepe Foundation Championship outfit Casric Stars.

With tensions certain to run high in front of a packed house, Mayo emphasised the importance of emotional control in a fixture often decided by fine margins.

"I don't think we have to be overconfident, but as players we have to manage our emotions because this is a game of emotions," Mayo said.

"For us, it is to help the team get positive results that we can get. It is a game where we have to control our emotions in the right mind with good performance."

The 27-year-old also dismissed suggestions that Chiefs' recent struggles stem from poor finishing, pointing instead to a lack of fortune in front of goal.

"For us, I think it is just pure luck," he added.

"We created many chances but managed to score just one goal in each game. But for us, it is just to take one game at a time and be positive that we help one another as attacking players.

"If we have a chance to score goals, then we will do that. But if we don't, then we will keep on improving and motivating each other."

Victory would lift Chiefs to third place on 33 points, while Pirates - second on 38, level with Sundowns on goal difference - could reclaim top spot with a win or even a draw.

Mason Mount and Raphael Varane return to training for Manchester United