Mamelodi Sundowns return to domestic action this evening against Sekhukhune United in an anticipated Betway Premiership clash, eager to put behind them the frustration of a 2-2 draw with Al Hilal in the CAF Champions League group stages.
The reigning champions remain firmly at the summit of the league table and will be looking to further cement their dominance, though they will have to do so without midfield dynamo Tebogo Mokoena, who serves a suspension after picking up two yellow cards against Siwelele FC.
Despite his absence, Mokoena has been vocal about the team’s mindset, insisting that morale remains high and that the squad is motivated to deliver. “We are excited, we are looking forward to the game. We know it’s a very important game for the team. Also, the morale of the team is going to help us going forward into the Champions League game,” he told FarPost.
The Bafana Bafana star acknowledged the challenge posed by Sekhukhune, who recently held Orlando Pirates to a stalemate and currently sit fifth in the standings.
“Both teams are motivated, I think,” he added. “Sekhukhune played well against Pirates, and they are a good side; it won’t be an easy game for us. If we can show up and match their hunger, our collective force will definitely surface.”
Babina Noko have struggled for consistency, drawing three of their last five matches and collecting just six points in that run. Head coach Eric Tinkler has been forthright about his expectations, telling SuperSport: “If you collect maximum points, you get to a really good position. It’s been about reiterating that message to the players and they must understand that today for example, some of their contributions were not enough. My expectation and the club’s expectation is more than what they are giving, so that’ll be the focus over the next couple of days.”
With Sundowns chasing momentum and Sekhukhune desperate to prove their mettle, tonight’s clash promises to be a test of hunger and resilience, as the champions look to tighten their grip on the Betway Premiership crown.