Mamelodi Sundowns forward Iqraam Rayners says the Brazilians expect a tough test from Chippa United in their Good Friday clash at Loftus Versfeld, where victory would restore a two‑point lead over Orlando Pirates.
The reigning champions had the match brought forward to ease the pressure on their busy schedule as they continue their push for CAF Champions League success this season.
Despite Sundowns’ dominance, Rayners expects a tough encounter against a Chippa side fighting to avoid relegation, stressing that such teams are often the most dangerous.
“It’s always going to be a difficult one because the team at the bottom is fighting for survival,” Rayners said, as quoted by Sowetan. “They are fighting for their jobs, their lives and families, so it won’t be an easy game. We just need to keep the momentum.”
The attacker emphasised the importance of consistency, adding that Sundowns are focused on maintaining their winning run and approaching each match with the right mindset.
“So, it is not going to be an easy match, but for us also, it’s about keeping the momentum, keeping winning games — and we take it one game at a time; that’s the most important thing,” he added.
“The guys know what to do and what they are up to, so it is all about focusing on the next game and doing our best,” he concluded.
Masandawana could be without several key players, as regulars including Ronwen Williams, Aubrey Modiba, Themba Zwane, Teboho Mokoena, Khuliso Mudau and Jayden Adams were recently on international duty with Bafana Bafana during the FIFA window.
Chippa United head into the clash on the back of a 2-1 defeat to Stellenbosch and will be desperate to turn around their poor run of results, which has seen them drop to 13th place on the log – a position they will be eager to move away from.