Van Heerden closed the book on an eight-year spell at AmaZulu when he joined the Chilli Boys in the off-season and has so far proved his worth under Dan Malesela.
The 28-year-old has featured in both Chippa's matches this season, a 2-1 victory over Free State Stars in the Absa Premiership and the 2-0 MTN8 quarter-final win against Platinum Stars.
Now Van Heerden and company are looking ahead to Sunday's showdown with Mamelodi Sundowns and the left back was quick to acknowledge the quality of the opposition.
"I think you have to be ready for any game and with the semi-final as well, we are playing at home the first leg so I think all the guys are excited and I'm excited myself," Van Heerden tells snl24.com/kickoff.
"I'm looking forward to something good this weekend. But we've got to respect them but we don't have to fear them.
"But all credit to them, they have been doing very well in the last couple of months and last season as well. They didn't reach the CAF Champions League for nothing, but we ready for anything that comes our way this season. Like I said we just have to respect them but not fear them."
Chippa have not lost at home since January this year against Bidvest Wits and Van Heerden attributes that success to the influence of Malesela.
"Our coach is exciting and had nice ideas on how to play football," he stated. "He expects a lot from his players and he's got a lot to offer this club and South African football.
"He's very passionate about the game and he expects a lot from us which is nice and refreshing. We've also got nice backing here and it will be good for us."