Mamelodi Sundowns will be aiming to avenge their shock defeat to Polokwane City when the two sides clash in the Betway Premiership on Wednesday.
The Brazilians suffered their only league loss of the season at the hands of Rise and Shine in a thrilling encounter at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium. A late goal from Bulelani Nikani sealed a 1-0 victory for Polokwane.
Since then, Sundowns have bounced back with impressive wins over Cape Town City and Kaizer Chiefs. However, they will face a tough test against a Polokwane City side that has been in fine form this season.
Rise and Shine currently occupy third place in the league standings with 13 points from six games, while Sundowns sit in second with 15 points.
Polokwane coach Phuti Mohafe has expressed his determination to prove that his team is not a pushover. He believes that the strong team spirit within the squad has been key to their success.
“When you look at it, we allow ourselves to grow and for us to grow is to keep a good relationship among ourselves.” said Mohafe on Times Live.
“That one [perceived lack of respect for his work] I care less about it because I think the work I am doing here at the club with the support of the technical team and management speaks volumes for us as a team.
“I don’t care who says what about me, I am working here at Polokwane City and I am surrounded by good coaches. It is not about me but the whole technical team.”
Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi added that he is a huge admirer of Mohafe.
He explained: “I have known this boy for more than 10 years now and I told him he will become one of the best coaches in this country. The first time I saw him, I think we were playing a pre-season friendly match against them and I was listening to him when he was talking to his team on the bench.
“I heard that this boy has got attention to detail, he’s got a lot to give to South African football and from that time until now our relationship has always been very good. He is one boy that I am very optimistic will make it because he understands and loves the game and he’s got attention to detail.
“You will always be concerned on how they will go but I always knew they will be a threat because the team they have is strong and they have a good coach who I respect a lot and we are very close.”