Sundowns ready for another shot at cup glory

Mamelodi Sundowns begin their 2025 Carling Knockout campaign on Saturday as they host Marumo Gallants at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville.

Kick-off is at 8pm CAT.

CURRENT FORM

Sundowns claimed first place on the Betway Premiership log with a 4-1 demolition of Richards Bay at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday.

The Brazilians have won six, drawn one, and lost one of their league games so far this season will look to carry the weekend’s momentum into their Carling Knockout opener at the weekend, having lost in the tournament’s final to Magesi FC in last season’s edition.

Masandawana have not lifted a domestic cup trophy since the 2021-22 season and will be hungry to claim the Carling Knockout trophy after missing out on the MTN8 title.

Sitting 11th on the league log, Marumo Gallants have not picked up a win in their last five games.

Most recently, Gallants were handed a 1-0 loss by Siwelele in the Bloemfontein derby on Sunday and will look to bounce back.

Bahlabane Ba Ntwa failed to advance past the first round of last year’s Carling Knockout after a 3-2 loss to Polokwane City and will have to produce a top-class performance to overcome Sundowns on Saturday.

WHAT WAS SAID

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso stated that despite his side’s trophy ambitions, they face a tough task this weekend.

“As always, expectations are on the same level of the demands. Being Mamelodi Sundowns, we have the obligation to fight to win all the competitions. That's the thoughts we have and the team has in mind,” said Cardoso.

“Obviously, we all know that we played Marumo quite recently away. We all know that Marumo Gallants this season still didn't lose to either us, Pirates or Chiefs. So we expect a tough opponent with a very well-studied lesson. But we ourselves obviously are preparing the best way.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Mamelodi Sundowns - Nuno Santos: As one of Masandawana’s new Portuguese signings, Nuno Santos announced his arrival with an assist on his full debut at the weekend. His vision and passing ability make him a serious threat and he will certainly look to create opportunities for his teammates on Saturday.

Marumo Gallants - Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo: Despite having only one goal to his name so far this season, Gallants will look to Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo as their dangerman up front. The seasoned striker will look to pounce on any opportunity given to him and add another to his tally for the season.

HEAD-TO-HEAD (Cup competitions)

Mamelodi Sundowns wins: 3

Marumo Gallants wins: 0

Draws: 0