Mamelodi Sundowns lock horns with Golden Arrows in their third match of the 2023-24 Premiership campaign. Masandawana have successfully won two of their opening matches, giving them a 100% winning record coming into this clash and will be hoping to make it a 3 out of 3 wins in this campaign.
The last encounter between the two sides ended in a 1-1 draw at the Princess Magogo
Stadium with goals in this encounter coming from Ryan Moon and Sipho Mbule. Speaking ahead of the match was Downs defender Grant Kekana, who formed part of the squad that played against Abafana Bes’thende in their last meeting.
“Another tough encounter coming up against Arrows. I think they’ve had two positive results, 1 win and 1 draw. It’s gonna be another tough encounter but we’ve analyzed them quite well and we will be looking to exploit the areas where we think we would benefit. It’s going to be a good game to watch and one that we’ve prepared for.”
“We know Arrows are quite good on the counter with Knox Mutizwa coming in short, Ryan Moon coming in from behind, and them changing with the wingers also coming inside. We’ve seen where they are dangerous, we are gonna try and hopefully make sure that they’re not as effective on the day. It’s going to be tough cuz those are quality players as well so we always bank on ourselves always and it’s going to be a good show.”
The Brazilians have started their title defense with a display of dominance, setting the tone in their two league clashes and reaching the semi finals of the MTN8 Cup competition. Kekana maintained that the team’s pre-season tour has prepared them for their back-to-back schedule and they stand ready to defend their home turf once more in their upcoming clash against Arrows, eyes fixed firmly on winning the game.
“The preparations have been quite good, even today was a restart day, the boys are still looking sharp and still looking hungry. The games are gonna come thick and fast but I think our pre-season has laid a solid base, because even in the pre-season we were playing games every 2 to 3 days, I think we’ve adapted to that schedule. It’s gonna be a good one and one that we prepared for and we can’t wait to play.”
The defender has also urged supporters to show up to the stadium in an exciting display of unity and passion to ignite the hearts of football supporters, promising an electric atmosphere and thrilling game.
“Ka Bo Yellow, Masandawana you know it’s been beautiful to watch you guys coming in numbers and singing your hearts out since we’ve come back and resumed the season. We are asking that you will come and show your support again as we host Golden Arrows, sing us to victory, we appreciate the support and we will make you proud.”
Mamelodi Sundowns host Golden Arrows in the DStv Premiership, on Tuesday 15 August at Lucas Moripe Stadium. Kick-off is at 17H00, live on SuperSport TV
Congratulations Masandawana, one game at a time, squad rotation looks good and is working wonders, nice lineup today especially having AB, Mvala,KelanA and Cotzee all in one match, there was stability and a very tight defence, Mokoena, Allende ,Maema were also very good and of course Shalulile, Mshishi and Nku.I am excited.Maseko , Costa, Bathusi and Nku have proven to be good signings, Mendieta has not seen much game time, but I know the is also a very good player.