With the Telkom Knockout semifinal weekend just days away now, there is much expectation from the teams ahead of the action that could determine whether their four respective clubs will be closer to the R4.25-million prize.

Mamelodi Sundowns manager Gordon Igesund (pictured) was calm in his assessment of the 'Brazilians' chances and naturally opted to focus on his team's midweek league tie against Santos.

"We are ready for the game," said Igesund.

"But we've got a big game coming up against Santos and we'll just be hoping that we don't pick up any injuries and things like that [because] we've obviously got to focus on our league game, as well as the cup.

"The guys are very motivated and we've had some really good results in the last couple of weeks, and they are playing well and we all are looking forward to it."

However, Igesund warned that Stars would be a tough nut to crack, adding: "The only thing is that Free State Stars are quite unknown to us and especially to me.

"I've watched them on DVD only, they're a completely new side. It's always difficult to play against these sides you don't know too much about."

FS Stars spokesman Louis Tshakoane added: "We are preparing very well in terms of the team. In actual fact, the team is leaving on Wednesday for Kimberley to prepare there.

"I think we will be ready for Sundowns. The midweek game won't affect them because they are quite a big squad and they are quite a professional team and they will come out smoking, but we will be prepared."

Bloem Celtic are equally buoyant about their chances, but team manager Khumbulani Konco admits they are focusing fully on their own preparation.

Konco said: "It's a big one - a Telkom semifinal, the guys are pumped up already. Playing Kaizer Chiefs is a motivation in itself. On top of that, it's a knockout and just 90 minutes away from the final. We are not concerned about them, we will look at ourselves."

Chiefs boss Muhsin Ertugral added: "We have been playing with a lot of confidence throughout the cup.

"Given the way we had to fight against SuperSport, we have to fancy ourselves to get to the final, we have come this far and bowing out at the semifinals is not an option."