Chiefs come into this mammoth clash against their archfoe on the back of a seven-match unbeaten streak in the Absa Premiership, which dates back to December 14.
On the other hand the Buccaneers have endured a turbulent season thus far and have not tasted victory in their last nine league games, dating back to November 30.
This contrasting form has prompted new Bucs coach Kjell Jonevret to slap the favourites tag on Amakhosi, much to the dismay of Komphela.
"At the back of seven 'good' results then you play Orlando Pirates, we'll want to take it as one of those matches and give it the respect it deserves," said Komphela.
"But it is a big challenge because we have to work on the mindset of the players. Unfortunately, you great people [media], you write that 'okay, Chiefs has done well [so] they are now the favourite; Orlando Pirates [are] underdogs'.
"I just hate that because it sends a wrong message. Players read that and they tend to relax. I wish I could rub that from anybody writing it."
The former junior national team mentor nonetheless admits he will have his work cut out in the final moments leading up to the match, as he looks to rid his troops of any hint of overconfidence.
"We will need more maturity, mentally, to understand that the previous results count for nothing when it comes to a Derby; it goes out through the window so we need to play the match, get the result and be focused on the day," he added.
"Unfortunately, in as much as we are in a good patch, they are not in a good patch. On Saturday things will be completely different."
Kick-off of the clash at the FNB Stadium is set for 15h30.