Meshack Motloung
Meshack Motloung
Mamelodi Sundowns are unlikely to turn the tables on Kaizer Chiefs when they meet in the MTN8 final at Kings Park Stadium tomorrow night. This will be the sixth time the two meet in a cup final.
The Brazilians believe that they will break Amakhosis' cup stranglehold over them in this new mega-bucks competition. But Amakhosi normally rise to the occasion in cup games. They may have gone through a bad patch in the league, but watch them when they play for the coveted trophy.
Coach Muhsin Ertugral said he was working on a number of options to remedy his disjointed defence.
The unavailability of the young Tshepo Bulu, whose aggression was what Chiefs needed this time, could have an adverse effect on the team. But Chiefs are not a one-man team, and they are easily motivated by their huge following that will be urging them on to victory.
Good news for the Chiefs supporters is the return from suspension of striker Jose Torrealba who has linked up well with Gert Schalkwyk.
Tinashe Nengomashe will be unavailable due to his sister's death.
Sundowns are packed with quality players and won't lie down. The fact that their management has promised they will share the R8 million first prize among themselves should they beat Chiefs, is undoubtedly a motivating factor. But the money could also prove a distraction.
Coach Trott Moloto said: "We've not won against them [in finals]. But the type of players we've assembled will definitely pull us through."
Players such as Brian Baloyi, Lerato Chabangu, Sibusiso Zuma, Benedict Vilakazi and Josta Dladla have the ability to end their cup hoodoo.