The Nedbank Cup last 32 clash against Richards Bay FC will give Downs coach, Rulani Mokwena a perfect opportunity to use some of his fringe players.
Mamelodi Sundowns’ squad is blessed with depth and top talent, meaning almost any team they put out on the day can compete against the best the league has to offer.
With the CAF Champions’ League group stage game against Al Hilal coming on the weekend, Mokwena might have to bench most of his usual starters to make sure they are well rested for Al Hilal.
But which players can we expect to see against The Natal Rich Boyz?
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In goal, Dennis Onyango might start ahead of Mzansi’s number one, Ronwen Williams.
At left-back, expect Sifiso Ngobeni to start ahead of first choice, Aubrey Modiba.
Brian Onyango might be given a start at centre back, together with Musa Lebusa, while Mvala and Kekana rest and recover for the weekend action.
In midfield, Bongani Zungu, Sipho Mbule, and Lesedi Kapinga might be preferred over the likes of Zwane, Mkhulise and Neo Maema.
At defensive midfield, Andile Jali might be preferred over Tebogo Mokoena, unless if he is in the plans to start on Saturday.
If that is the case, Mokoena might start once again, with Rivaldo Coetzee maybe making the bench.
Upfront, Gift Motupa has an opportunity to start, with Thabiso Kutumela in the mix as well. Youngster, Jerome Karelse, might fancy his chances as well.
There is also a Lebohang Maboe who is definitely hungry for some game time. Come tomorrow, we might see a totally different Sundowns team, with coach Rulani spoiled for choice.
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What can we expect from Richards Bay FC?
The Natal Rich Boyz will come out firing on all cylinders, this is their big chance for honours.
Having succumbed to Swallows FC in their last league game, the Nedbank Cup gives them a perfect opportunity to let loose and play a more attacking game against the Brazilians.
“The game comes at the right time – it’s not a disturbance, we have two out of nine points. Maybe it comes at the right time due to less pressure [in the cup] against Sundowns,” Richards Bay co-coach, Vasili Manousakis, told the media on Monday.
A team that plays under less pressure is a dangerous one. With Downs expected to make a lot of changes in their starting line up, Richards Bay players will fancy their chances.
We can expect a good game of football.
