Our football analyst predicts the outcome of the Shell Helix Ultra Cup clash between Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns.
The battle lines are drawn this Saturday as Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns cross swords in a thrill-packed Shell Helix Ultra Cup encounter. Coach Pitso Mosimane’s recent remarks about Chiefs getting favours from referees have sparked huge controversy and it remains to be seen how it will affect this clash. We also need to keep in mind that some players will not be available for selection due to the FIFA International break.
Photo Copyright Steve Haag – Hollywoodbets
Kaizer Chiefs v Mamelodi Sundowns | Saturday 12 October | FNB Stadium | 16:00
To Win Match (90 Mins)
Kaizer Chiefs 17/10
Draw 19/10
Mamelodi Sundowns 17/10
Kaizer Chiefs
Amakhosi have been superb in the league, winning six of their eight games so far which has seen them top the standings in the early stages of the season. What’s has been remarkable is the way they’ve been able to grind out results in games where they haven’t really played exciting football and that’s where coach Ernst Middendorp’s tactical flexibility has manifested itself, especially when he has to revert to a more direct approach.
Middesndorp will, however, be missing some of his key players as Eric Mathoho is with the Bafana Bafana squad while Lazalous Kambole will be representing his native country, Zambia. Youngsters Siyabonga Ngezana and Happy Mashiane have travelled ith the South African Under 2 to face Egypt on the 12th and 15th of this month.
What should embolden the Phefeni Glamour Boys is the fact that superstars Khama Billiat who won the man of the match award in last year’s edition, Lebohang Manyama and Kearyn Baccus who has attracted interest from the South African national team coach are available for this gigantic clash.
Mamelodi Sundowns
The dubbed Brazilians are the defending champions as they won the inaugural competition 2-1 last year. They remain undefeated in the league with four wins and two draws after playing six games, and they are still going strong in the CAF Champions League as well having recently brushed aside their opponents to reach the group stage.
They also have a few players that are on national duty as Thapelo Morena, Mosa Lebusa and last year’s winner scorer Themba Zwane are with Bafana Bafana while Phakamani Mahlambi is with the Under 23. Coach Pitso Mosimane should, however, have enough firepower in his arsenal to compete against his opponents as the likes of Oupa Manyasa, Andile Jali, Gaston Sirino and Hlompho Kekana are geared up for this compelling contest.
Sundowns might rest players because they have that luxury of depth in their squad but neither team will be taking this match for granted as coach Pitso made it clear that there are no friendlies between these football titans.
Verdict: Draw 19/10
Some of the key players might not be available for selection but this is a perfect opportunity for the fringe one to prove what they can do. From the tactical aspect, this will be a dress rehearsal for the league game on the 27th and a win or a defeat could be a huge psychological factor. I’ll keep it safe here and back a draw at 19/10. I think the result will be decided on penalties.
Written by Eggs Benedict Ngwenya for Hollywoodbets.
