Mamelodi Sundowns, under new coach Manqoba Mngqithi, have enjoyed a successful start to the season ahead of their Carling Knockout Cup clash with Golden Arrows.
They have won three of their four league matches, including a victory over Kaizer Chiefs. Sundowns also reached the MTN8 semi-finals and qualified for the CAF Champions League group stage.
Golden Arrows, led by Mabhuti Khenyeza, have had a mixed start to the season with two wins and two losses. They enter this match after consecutive defeats against Magesi and Sekhukhune United.
Mngqithi Faces Second Home
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi holds a special place in his heart for Golden Arrows, his former club. However, his sentimental attachment won’t affect his approach to the Carling Knockout Cup match.
Sundowns host Arrows at Lucas Moripe Stadium, and the match promises to be a competitive encounter. Arrows have had mixed results this season, while Sundowns are a formidable force in South African football.
Mngqithi’s coaching decisions will be under scrutiny after Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos suggested that Teboho Mokoena and Khuliso Mudau should be given more playing time. Mokoena has been sidelined in the league, while Mudau recently featured against Kaizer Chiefs.
Players to watch
Mamelodi Sundowns have a wealth of talent, making it difficult for coach Manqoba Mngqithi to select his starting lineup. Iqraam Rayners, who recently impressed for Bafana Bafana in the AFCON qualifiers, has been in excellent form for Sundowns.
Lucas Ribeiro, another key player, has stepped up admirably since taking over the No. 10 jersey from Gaston Sirino.
Golden Arrows can rely on the experience of Knox Mutizwa, Nduduzo Sibiya, Menzi Masuku, and Gladwin Shitolo to navigate the challenging encounter against Sundowns.
How to watch
The match is scheduled to kick-off at 18:00 and will be broadcast live on the public broadcaster’s radio stations for commentary. The match will be broadcast live on SuperSport PSL channel 202 and can also be streamed on Showmax.
Lucas Moripe Stadium
Lucas Moripe Stadium is an alternative home venue for Mamelodi Sundowns, who typically play at Loftus Versfeld Stadium. Named after former footballer Masterpieces Moripe, the stadium can accommodate nearly 29,000 spectators. It was used as a training venue during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Betting odds (supplied by Hollywoodbets)
To win (90 min)
Sundowns 11/20 | Draw 24/10 | Arrows 5/1
Mamelodi Sundowns are the clear favorites to win the match and advance to the Carling Knockout Cup quarterfinals. Whilst Golden Arrows are known for their resilience, we can’t see them posing a challenge here.
We tip Sundowns at 11/20.