Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns will clash in a highly anticipated Carling Knockout Cup quarterfinal clash this weekend.
Both teams are eager to secure a place in the semifinals. Chiefs aim to end their nine-year trophy drought, while Sundowns seek their first cup title since 2022.
The victorious team might, thereafter, be tipped as favourites for the trophy with two other so-called big clubs having crashed out.
The Brazilians swept away Golden Arrows to secure a spot in the last eight while Chiefs beat SuperSport to reach this round.
Head-to-head
Kaizer Chiefs' last victory over Mamelodi Sundowns came in 2021. Since then, Sundowns have dominated the head-to-head record, winning eight of the last ten encounters.
Sundowns have secured significant victories over Chiefs in recent years, including a 5-0 win in 2023 and a 4-0 win in 2022.
The two teams previously met in the Betway Premiership this season, with Sundowns emerging victorious with a 2-1 scoreline at FNB Stadium.
Form guide
Manqoba Mngqithi’s troops had a long winning streak of seven games before they were stunned by Polokwane City in the past weekend handing them their first loss in the league this season.
However, they returned to winning ways in style on Wednesday evening beating Cape Town City 3-0 at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
Nasreddine Nabi’s side, on the other hand, has had a rollercoaster run in all competitions.
They have won three, drawn one and lost two of their first seven games this season. They showed character on Wednesday coming back from 2-0 down to get a draw at the end in what was their last match before they take on Sundowns.
Team news
Themba Zwane, Lesiba Nku, Kegan Johannes, Siyabonga Mabena, Rivalso Coetzee and Tashreeq Matthews are all nursing injuries in Sundowns camp.
Meanwhile, in their last match, they welcomed back Lucas Ribeiro from suspension and Ronwen Williams who had travelled for Ballon d’Or awards.
Meanwhile, Chiefs have been without the services of George Matlou, Tebogo Potsane, Edmilson Dove, and Edson Castillo due to injuries.
Time and where to watch
The match will take place on Saturday, 2 November at FNB Stadium and will be live on SuperSport 202 and SABC Sport.
Predicted line-ups
Chiefs: Ntwari, Frosler, Cross, Dortley, Miguel, Zwane, Blom, Shabalala, Sirino, Duba, Chivaviro
Sundowns: Williams, Mudau, Modiba, Mvala, Kekana, Mokoena, Allende, Maema, Ribeiro, Rayners, Shalulile
Score Prediction
Afrik-Foot ZA Prediction: Kaizer Chiefs 2-2 Mamelodi Sundowns