BENSON Mhlongo has warned Absa Premiership champions Mamelodi Sundowns against complacency ahead of their clash with beleaguered Orlando Pirates at Orlando Stadium tomorrow night.

Just four days after falling to Soweto rivals Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium, the Buccaneers meet Sundowns and are desperate to turn things around after dropping out of the top eight.

Ninth-placed Bucs are 18 points behind leaders Amakhosi, but Mhlongo believes they still have a shot at winning the title. And beating the Brazilians tomorrow would give them the boost they need to close the gap. Kickoff is at 7.30pm.

"It's difficult to predict who will win this game because these two teams are so inconsistent. But current form does not count when you go into a big game like this one. It's all about what you offer on the day," said Mhlongo, the veteran Polokwane City midfielder who played for both Pirates and Sundowns.

"Things for Pirates are not going well, but they can turn things around.

"There is still a long way to go in the season. You win about five games and you are right back in it, provided Chiefs drop points."

Mhlongo feels Sundowns have been poor in front of goal this season and that could be their downfall tomorrow.

"Sundowns are a good side, but they do not convert their chances. They have the best squad in the league, but they need to learn to work together. It's not good for such quality players to be wasting so many opportunities."

Mhlongo, meanwhile, hailed City coach Kosta Papic for the impact he has made since joining the club from Chippa United. City have gone on a dream run in the league and yesterday they were declared the Q-Innovation's quarter two winners with a game to spare.

"The attitude of players has changed. We are going forward without fear and he [Papic] has given us freedom to play football," he added.