Orlando Pirates are under immense pressure following their fourth League loss of the season to Golden Arrows midweek, while Chiefs have shown better - although not entirely convincing - form in the League, with a victory over Black Aces on Tuesday.
However, McCarthy tells snl24.com/kickoff that past results rarely matter in this fixture – given the magnitude of the match and the traditional rivalry between the two clubs.
“I remember that just before a match against Pirates, everyone would be raring to go,” McCarthy says, with a chuckle.
“The players that would be injured will all of a sudden say they are all fit to play, while there will be a certain buzz in training and in the dressing room.
“So I do not think that past results will have an effect on the match. On the day, it is all about the team that does well and shows more hunger to win.”
The ex-Amakhosi man believes a stronger desire to win next month’s Telkom Knockout semi-final clash might lead to the two Soweto giants taking a cautious approach on Saturday, as he predicts a stalemate between the two fierce rivals.
“I think the match will be drawn because the two teams will also be preparing for the semi-finals of the Telkom Knockout, so they will be very cautious,” he said.
“The team selection could also be influenced by the Telkom Knockout, so the match might not be as exciting as people might want it to be.”
Kick-off at FNB Stadium is set for 15:30.