Mamelodi Sundowns striker Iqraam Rayners is set to give Kaizer Chiefs defenders like Edmilson Dove a hard time in the Nedbank Cup semi-final. | Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers
Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers
Sunday's Nedbank Cup semi-final between Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs at Loftus Versfeld is more than just a game; it is a clash of ambitions.
On the stage set for a riveting clash, Chiefs will be aware that every tackle and every pass will carry the weight of their history at a time when it is disappearing into obscurity.
The club is frequently reminded about the nine-year trophy drought. Sunday's match offers a last glimmer of hope of salvaging a trophy this season and prevent a full 10-year trophy drought.
Chiefs are under immense pressure, and the glittering Nedbank Cup trophy is the last chance to provide a much-needed spark for the squad to build on heading into next season.
Having faced numerous challenges throughout the season, Chiefs view this match as a last-chance saloon for silverware this season. With only two Premiership wins since the start of the year, the pressure is palpable for coach Nasreddine Nabi and his squad.
On the opposite side are Sundowns, a team riding high on confidence and boasting an impressive record that can rightfully declare thems as the undisputed kings of South African football.
Known for their attacking prowess and tactical superiority, Sundowns will prove to be formidable opponents. They boast a combination of seasoned professionals and emerging talent capable of tormenting Chiefs all afternoon.
The two clubs will meet for the fourth time in all competitions this season, with Sundowns victorious in three.
They won both league matches 2-1 and 1-0 and claimed a handsome 4-0 success in the Carling Knockout competition.
Sundowns have not lost any of their last 12 meetings with Chiefs, a run that dates back to 2021. They have won nine, which includes a 5-1 and two 4-0 victories, with the other three games drawn.
The lethal weapon for Sundowns will be Namibia international Peter Shalulile, who scored the pivotal goal in the recent Champions League quarter-final against Tunisian heavyweights Esperance.
No player has scored more goals in games between Sundowns and Chiefs than Shalulile, and he will be looking to add to his tally in this tie. Shalulile has scored eight goals in these fixtures, one more than previous record-holder Lovemore Chafunya, also of Sundowns.
Ace Khuse, Chippa Molatedi, Thabo Mooki and Siyabonga Nomvethe all scored five goals for Chiefs against Sundowns, the most for the Naturena club.
Shalulile’s eight strikes for Sundowns against Chiefs have come from 10 starts and one sub appearance. He scored twice for Highlands Park against Chiefs, including one in a famous Nedbank Cup success in 2020 when the game finished 1-1 and Shalulile’s side triumphed on penalties.