Mamelodi Sundowns face Golden Arrows test in MTN8 semi-final

Mamelodi Sundowns begin their bid to turn domestic and continental dominance into MTN8 success when they host Golden Arrows in the first leg of their semi-final at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday at 15:00.

The Brazilians arrive with confidence after beating Marumo Gallants in midweek, but Golden Arrows will provide a stern challenge after their impressive quarter-final victory over Kaizer Chiefs.

Sundowns have established themselves as the dominant force in the league and won their second CAF Champions League title last season. However, success in the MTN8 has been far less consistent. They have lifted the competition only once since its rebranding in 2008, winning the trophy in 2021.

Coach Miguel Cardoso has called on his players to treat the tournament as a separate challenge and pursue it with a different level of focus this season.

The Portuguese manager has also warned Sundowns against underestimating Golden Arrows, who have already shown they can handle the pressure and demands of knockout football.

“We have great respect for the opponent,” Cardoso said ahead of the clash, while stressing that Sundowns’ objective is to win the first leg and put themselves in a strong position for the return.

Golden Arrows have enjoyed an encouraging start under Pitso Dladla, who took charge at the beginning of the season after the departure of Manqoba Mngqithi.

Dladla’s side demonstrated their defensive organisation in the quarter-finals, securing a 1-0 win over Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium to book their place in the last four.

Their early league form has reinforced that reputation. Golden Arrows have opened their campaign with three consecutive 0-0 draws, highlighting the difficulty opponents have had in breaking them down.

That record could lead to an intriguing tactical contest in Pretoria. Sundowns are expected to control possession and move the ball quickly in an effort to pull apart a compact Golden Arrows defence. Dladla’s team, meanwhile, are likely to prioritise their shape, remain disciplined without the ball and look for chances on the counter-attack.

Sundowns will have to cope without Khuliso Mudau, who sustained a serious Achilles injury during the victory over Marumo Gallants. He is expected to be sidelined for at least six months.

Despite that setback, the home side retain significant attacking strength. Cassius Mailula is among the players to have made a strong start to the campaign, having scored against Marumo Gallants in midweek.

Golden Arrows’ immediate objective will be to keep the tie finely balanced ahead of the return leg. Sundowns, by contrast, will be determined to establish an advantage before travelling to Durban.

The semi-final offers Cardoso’s side another opportunity to end their repeated frustration in the MTN8. With a place in the final at stake, Sundowns will hope their league and continental pedigree can finally be reflected in this competition.