Mamelodi Sundowns play Magesi FC in the Carling Knockout final in a clash dubbed David vs Goliath battle.
The quality within the Masandawana squad means coach Manqoba Mngqithi's side come into the match as favourites at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein. However, Dikwena tsa Meetse are determined to cause another major upset after eliminating Orlando Pirates, TS Galaxy and Richards Bay en route to the final.
This is a massive chance for the Brazilians coach Mngqithi to win his first trophy after taking over from Rulani Mokwena, while his opposite number Clinton Larsen will be aiming at helping his team win its first major trophy despite being debutants in South Africa's top-flight football.
Goalkeepers Battle
Magesi FC goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze has won all three Man-of-the-Match Awards owing to his heroics from the Round of 16 all the way to the semi-final hurdle. in the final, he will have to be vigilant and ensure the likes of Peter Shalulile, Iqraam Rayners and Lucas Ribeiro don't shine. It calls for organization at the back and the skipper has to ensure it is effectively done.
While Chipezeze has kept two clean sheets, Ronwen Williams is yet to concede in the ongoing edition. Much is not expected from the Bafana Bafana skipper owing to the quality in defense, but he still has to effectively organize his defense to avoid being caught in counterattacks.
Tactical Intelligence
Masandawana have established players who are regulars with their respective National Teams. Most took part in the just concluded rounds of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Magesi don't have the quality that Sundowns have, but they have still managed to disappoint better teams to reach the final hurdle.
Mngqithi is known for his direct football which Larsen might opt to counter with a defensive approach, hoping to catch the PSL defending champions in counterattacks. Whoever gets his tactics right might end up being crowned.
Team Spirit
This will be the most vital aspect ahead of the Saturday game since it will determine where the trophy will go.
Magesi did not expect to be in the final, and as a matter of fact, they have already overachieved and believe they can go all the way. This season, they are the only team that have beaten the high-flying Orlando Pirates.
Nevertheless, Sundowns are yet to concede a goal in their journey to the final. They have scored 11 goals in the process and are seemingly invincible. Downs are riding high in confidence which might be key to unlocking Magesi defense.
Individual Brilliance
Sometimes when the game is tight, an individual steps up to inspire his team to victory. Sundowns have players like Lucas Ribeiro who can step up and help his team win with one magical move.
Magesi rely more on teamwork, but crucial saves by Chipezeze can inspire his teammates to up their tempo and disappoint the Yellow Nation in Bloemfontein.
Pressure Disadvantage
After missing out on MTN8, Sundowns are under pressure to deliver their first trophy this season on Saturday. A large number of the fans that will be in the stadium will be supporting Masandawana with the remaining minority cheering Dikwena tsa Meetse.
All Magesi need to do is frustrate Sundowns by denying them spaces and an early goal, and probably get theirs.
The pressure will slowly work against Sundowns and they might end up panicking and hand Magesi the advantage.
