Mamelodi Sundowns defender Malibongwe Khoza expects a stern test when the champions host high-flying top-flight newcomers Milford FC in Wednesday’s Betway Premiership clash at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria [19:30].
The Brazilians are back home after an MTN8 trip to KwaZulu-Natal, and they are shifting focus to league business. Currently unbeaten in the Betway Premiership this season, Sundowns are on course to reclaim the league title, which they surrendered to Orlando Pirates last campaign after an eight-year stranglehold.
They have so far recorded three wins and a draw, giving the Buccaneers a strong early challenge for the ultimate prize in South African football. Having scored 11 goals in five league outings, they have the highest tally but will want to work on their defence after conceding five times.
They come up against Betway Premiership newboys Milford, who have recorded two victories, a draw and a defeat, to sit fifth on the table. That has shaped Khoza’s expectations of their visitors as he notes the threat posed.
MALIBONGWE KHOZA CLEAR ABOUT SUNDOWNS’ EXPECTATIONS AND MILFORD FC’S THREAT
However, Milford have scored just three goals in four games, while conceding just as many. Left-back Sifiso Mdluli, Cebolenkosi Mthethwa and striker Sicelo Masilela have found the back of the net for Richards Bay-based side.
“Of course, from this side we are expecting a very energetic team, very counter-attacking play. So I think they are going to come with a lot of energy, and we are very ready for them, and we are going to give our all for our supporters,” Khoza told Sundowns’ media team.
“I wouldn’t say I’m surprised [that Milford are not at the bottom part of the table] because they have a lot of experienced players who have been playing in the league. That really helps them to keep the momentum going and keep the team stable.”
Wednesday’s fixture comes hot on the heels of Sundowns securing their spot in the MTN8 final this past Sunday at the King Zwelithini Stadium in Umlazi. Masandawana overturned a 1-0 semi-final first-leg defeat against Golden Arrows, fighting back to secure a 3-2 victory in the second leg and progress to the final on the away goals rule. The Tshwane giants will face defending champions Pirates in the final of the top eight competition.
“It feels amazing [reaching the MTN8 final] because it is something that we have always wanted to do, because a lot of people are complaining that we are not putting more focus on local competitions. So we made sure that we reached the final, and we will try to win it,” Khoza went on.
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