Milford have been drawn against the Soweto giants in the last 16, with a place in the quarter-finals at stake on Tuesday. The fixture offers the lower-profile club an opportunity to test themselves against one of African football’s biggest names, but midfielder Chili insists they will approach the contest without feeling overwhelmed by the occasion.

Speaking to the Siya crew, Chili recognised Pirates’ quality while expressing confidence that Milford’s recent form could provide a platform for an upset.

“We are going there as underdogs, no pressure whatsoever, but that doesn’t mean we don’t want to go into the next round,” he said. “It will be a different ball game since it is a cup game, but hey, the truth is nothing will excite you more than playing against the team of this magnitude.”

Milford have already faced Pirates in the league, giving them some familiarity with the challenge ahead. Chili nevertheless expects the knockout encounter to have a different character, particularly given the Buccaneers’ experience of competing for silverware.

“They are one of the biggest and best clubs in Africa with too much quality,” he said. “Yes, we know what they are capable of and when it comes to cup games, they have more experience compared to us.”

Pirates will start as favourites, but Milford are determined to make their opponents work for progression. Chili believes there is little value in changing the team’s approach simply because of the stature of the opposition.

“We’ve been having a good run. I believe we will take the same performance into that cup game and see how it turns out,” he said.

“We’re going there to play our normal game, hoping for the great results.”

For Milford, the tie represents both a formidable test and a chance to make a statement. Chili accepts the underdog label, but his side will travel with the ambition of extending their cup campaign at the champions’ expense.