Sekhukhune United veteran defender Daniel Cardoso has sounded a warning to his teammates ahead of their crucial encounter with Kaizer Chiefs this Saturday, urging them to stay sharp and not underestimate the Soweto giants, who are riding high on newfound momentum.
Cardoso, who spent seven seasons with Chiefs before making the switch to Sekhukhune, has labeled the upcoming fixture as “the game of the weekend,” emphasizing the importance of the clash for both sides. With top-eight finishes and continental football on the line, the intensity is expected to reach boiling point.
“Winning the cup must have given Chiefs that energy to push for the top eight,” Cardoso said, referencing Amakhosi’s emotional victory over long-time rivals Orlando Pirates — their first major trophy in nearly ten years.
Read: Kaizer Chiefs Eye Top-Eight Spot in Crucial Clash Against CAF Contenders Sekhukhune
For Sekhukhune, the stakes are equally high. Sitting just one point ahead of Stellenbosch FC, Babina Noko are determined to secure qualification for next season’s CAF Confederation Cup. “They’ll be up for it. And for us, we’re just one point ahead of Stellenbosch, so we can’t afford to slip up. We want that CAF Confederation Cup spot again.”
Despite the looming challenge, Cardoso showed respect to his former club, congratulating them on finally breaking their silverware drought. “Well done to them. I think it’s deserved after so many years. Ten years is a long time without a trophy. This means a lot to the chairman and the fans.”
Chiefs, however, still have a mountain to climb in the league. The cup victory was a bright spark in an otherwise disappointing campaign, with the team having secured just one win in their last ten league matches. The pressure is on to transform cup success into consistent league performances.
Chiefs will have to make defensive adjustments ahead of Saturday’s match, with Inacio Miguel and Bradley Cross both suspended. This opens the door for Edmilson Dove to slot in alongside Zitha Kwinika in central defence, while Happy Mashiane is expected to start at left-back.
With the season nearing its climax, Saturday’s clash promises to deliver fireworks — a battle of grit, form, and ambition as both clubs fight for pride, position, and progression.
Kaizer Chiefs will need to bring their A-game if they are to overcome Sekhukhune, who have been in strong form this season, and push for a spot in the competition’s top tier.
Babina Noko will also be motivated following head coach Eric Tinkler winning the Coach of the Month for April, with midfielder Keletso Makgalwa scooping the Player of the Month award. Kick off at the Peter Mokaba Stadium is set for 15h00 on Saturday, 17 May 2025.