Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi says he has done his homework well on Magesi FC ahead of the two teams meeting in the Carling Knockout final.
Magesi will clash with Sundowns in the cup final at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein on Saturday and with the trophy at stake, Mngqithi’s side are considered favourites given their quality and experience.
However, the Sundowns coach is wary of an upset and admits he has analysed them well and is prepared for all threats that they could potentially pose to his team.
Mngqithi has done his homework well
“The Magesi team, because I respect every opponent and I’m always scared of the opponents who are not favoured, I’m scared of those, they always pull surprises so I tend to dig as deep as I can and look at each and every individual,” Mngqithi said as per iDiski Times.
“I know their team probably more than I know my team at times, as it is now I can tell you their starting XI and potential substitutes, everything they can play in this match, I know how difficult it’s going to be dealing with Makhubu up front.
“I know Deolin Mekoa, he will be causing lots of problems with his left foot, Darpoh is big problem in midfield breaking down most attacks, Mashigo on the right, who runs for every ball and is instrumental in assisting defensively.
Can Magesi pull an upset against Sundowns?
“Abrahams at right back is the most influential and underrated players in the PSL. I saw him when he played with TUKS against us, as an offensive player but now as a right-back. Charimbandare is very lazy on the left, but dangerous offensively.
“When he comes out, he’s important offensively, I think he reserves the energy for that because he’s influential offensively. Back four? Mokone on the left side, the other Mokone as the right centre-back
“Chipezeze is a good goalkeeper, works hard, we know what to expect… we just have to be focused and keep our levels of motivation at the right level because games like these are difficult, if you win it, by the way… if you lose it, you are in the news, it’s a tough game, I don’t want to lie to you.”
Sundowns are seeking a first Carling Knockout trophy since 2019 while newly-promoted Magesi have eyes on their first-ever.
