MTN8 semi-final: Arrows lead Sundowns as starting XIs are confirmed

Lamontville Golden Arrows will defend a 1-0 advantage against Mamelodi Sundowns in the second leg of their MTN8 semi-final at King Zwelithini Stadium this afternoon, with both teams having named their starting line-ups.

Abafana Bes’thende took the lead in the tie when Sede Junior Dion scored at Lucas Moripe Stadium seven days ago. That result gives Arrows a narrow advantage heading into the return fixture, with a place in the MTN8 final at stake.

Pitso Dladla’s side arrive in good form after following up their first-leg victory by beating Stellenbosch FC in their midweek league match. Arrows have also maintained a notable defensive record this season and are the only side yet to concede after six games.

A draw or another victory would be enough for Arrows to progress to the final. Sundowns, by contrast, must win to keep their hopes of reaching the showpiece alive.

Arrows have not appeared in the MTN8 final since 2009, when they produced a remarkable 6-0 victory over Ajax Cape Town. Their current advantage means they are 90 minutes away from another final, although Sundowns will be seeking to overturn the deficit on the road.

Mamelodi Sundowns responded to their defeat by Arrows by recording a convincing 5-2 victory over fellow KwaZulu-Natal club AmaZulu FC in midweek. Miguel Cardoso’s team are now aiming to reach their first MTN8 final since 2023.

Arrows will start with Mbanjwa in goal, behind Angnikoi, Shezi, Dlamini and Mantshiyane. Sithole and Maluleke are named in midfield, with Maxwele, Dion, Gasa and Zwane completing the starting XI.

Their substitutes are Ngcobo, Madonsela, Mafuleka, Radzhadzhi, P. Khumalo, Van Rooi, T. Khumalo, Van Neel and Msomi.

Sundowns captain Williams starts in goal, with Kekana, Ndamane, Morena and Basadien forming the defensive line. Allende, Mokoena and Ndlovu are selected in midfield, while Matthews, Mailula and Leon lead the attack.

The Sundowns substitutes are Goss, Khoza, Mbunyelwa, Modiba, Mkhulise, Zwane, Van Wyk, Mokoena and Rayners.

The result will decide which side advances to the MTN8 final. Arrows’ clean-sheet record and first-leg lead give them the advantage before kick-off, while Sundowns must produce a winning performance if they are to overturn the tie.

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