Mamelodi Sundowns are set to clash with Sekhukhune United in a highly anticipated Nedbank Cup quarter-final encounter. Sundowns secured their passage to this stage with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Mpheni Home Defenders. In contrast, Sekhukhune United advanced via a bye, following the suspension of Royal AM due to financial irregularities.
Form Guide
Under the guidance of Miguel Cardoso, Sundowns have maintained their relentless dominance in the Betway Premiership. They currently command a substantial 15-point lead at the summit of the table, a testament to their consistency and tactical acumen. However, Orlando Pirates, trailing in second place, possess four games in hand, potentially narrowing the gap.
Sundowns’ ambitions extend beyond domestic success, as they have also progressed to the knockout stages of the CAF Champions League, highlighting their continental aspirations. Facing Sekhukhune United presents a significant hurdle in their pursuit of Nedbank Cup glory.
Sekhukhune United, now under the stewardship of Eric Tinkler, are aiming to build upon the solid foundation laid by Lehlohonolo Seema. Currently occupying a commendable fifth position in the league standings, Sekhukhune have demonstrated their capability to challenge established sides.
Both teams enter this quarter-final fixture following recent setbacks. Sundowns suffered a 2-1 defeat to Orlando Pirates earlier this month, while Sekhukhune United also succumbed to a 2-1 loss against Stellenbosch.
Miguel Cardoso has expressed concerns regarding the scheduling of this Nedbank Cup match, citing its potential impact on Sundowns’ crucial CAF Champions League encounter scheduled for the following Tuesday. He articulated his concerns, as reported by The Citizen, stating, “Our expectations were that we will play against Pirates and then prepare for the Champions League match with the right context in order to arrive in the first and second match in the best condition possible.”
Player Spotlight
Lucas Ribeiro Costa has been pivotal in Sundowns’ success this season, topping the league’s scoring charts, and he is expected to cause trouble once again in Pretoria.
The Brazilian was crowned Player of the Month for the second time this season, thanks to his outstanding contribution to Sundowns’ winning streak in February. The twenty-six-year-old played a key role in eight goals, scoring five and providing three assists during the month.
Additionally, Ribeiro’s solo effort in Sundowns’ victory over Orlando Pirates in Tshwane was voted Goal of the Month, earning him back-to-back awards in the category after winning it in January.
How to watch
The match is scheduled to kick-off at 19:00 on Friday, 28 March and will be carried live on the public broadcaster’s radio stations for commentary. The match will be broadcast live on satellite TV giants SuperSport channel 202 and can be streamed on Showmax.
Lucas Moripe Stadium
The 28 900 seater stadium will host the clash between Mamelodi Sundowns and Sekhukhune United. The Pretoria based stadium was refurbished ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup and served as a training venue for the German national football team during the global spectacle.
Named after former local soccer player Lucas Moripe, the stadium is the part-time home stadium of Mamelodi Sundowns, the powerhouse of the South African Premier Soccer League (PSL).
Betting odds (supplied by Hollywoodbets)
To win (90 min)
Mamelodi Sundowns 1/3 | Draw 7/2 | Sekhukhune United Chiefs 8/1
I think a big win for Sundowns is on the cards – back the home side on the win and over 3.5 goals at 22/10.