Mamelodi Sundowns return to the DStv Premiership action to host Stellenbosch FC at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on Wednesday evening. Following the two teams victories in the MTN8 semi-final, the two teams will both come with confidence and the Brazilians will be looking to clinch a victory over Stellies.
The Captain of Mamelodi Sundowns, Themba Zwane, expects a tough encounter against Stellenbosch and said “To be honest, it’s going be a very difficult game. It’s that game where Stellenbosch will be looking to use their pace in front. They are going to sit back and try to catch us in the counterattack. Obviously, we as a team know what to do, which is to take care of the ball and try to manage the game very well and take our chances.”
The Bafana Bafana international pointed Iqraam Rayners as the player from the opposition that his side will look out for in this encounter. “They will use the likes of Rayners upfront. He is the guy they use a lot to give him the balls and use pace. He’s got technique and he’s their main player now.”
The Western Cape side will head to this match without Sibongiseni Mthethwa following his departure to Kaizer Chiefs. The Downs Captain said even without the midfielder, Stellies will not give them an easy game.
“I don’t think they are a weak team because if you check the way coach (Steve) Barker does things, he always has someone who is similar to a player that has left. He’s got a lot of players that are quick and aggressive on the ball. That’s why it is difficult to play against them,” he said.
“We have been watching them against Orlando Pirates. We know what to expect and we know what to do. We are going to finish off our preparations and try to be sure on what we are going to do on Wednesday.”
Zwane concluded by thanking the Yellow Nation for supporting them at the MTN8 semi-finals and pleaded with them to keep supporting the Tshwane-based side in their upcoming matches.
“Thank you for the Chiefs match, they attended very well and we appreciate the support. The stadium was full, and we are encouraging them to come in numbers for the upcoming game, we need them as always. We are looking forward to seeing them at the stadium.”
Mamelodi Sundowns will face Stellenbosch FC on Wednesday evening at the Lucas Moripe Stadium. Kick off is at 19H30.
