Sundowns determined to avoid consecutive defeats, says Modiba

Mamelodi Sundowns will attempt to respond immediately to their 1-0 defeat by Golden Arrows when they face AmaZulu, with Aubrey Modiba insisting that back-to-back losses are not acceptable for the African champions.

Sundowns were beaten in the first leg of their MTN8 semi-final against Golden Arrows and must overturn the one-goal deficit when the sides meet again at King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday.

Before then, their attention has turned to the league and the challenge posed by AmaZulu. Modiba acknowledged that the match would provide another demanding test, but said Sundowns were determined to use the lessons from their cup defeat to return to winning ways.

“We have shifted our focus to this league game, because it’s never easy to play against AmaZulu. We will take the positives from the defeat against Arrows and use it in the league. At Sundowns we always try not to lose consecutive games and we will bounce back.”

The defeat by Golden Arrows was a narrow setback, but it leaves Sundowns needing a stronger performance in the second leg of the semi-final. For now, the club’s priority is to regain momentum in the league before returning to their MTN8 campaign.

Sundowns have also established a record of 31 consecutive unbeaten league matches at home. That run is an additional source of motivation for Modiba and his team as they prepare to face AmaZulu.

The visitors will arrive with an advantage in terms of preparation after not playing over the weekend. Modiba expects AmaZulu to benefit from that rest, although he rejected the idea that it should provide Sundowns with an excuse.

“They are a well rested team, but that is no excuse for us. We know they have dangerous and speedy players, and they know exactly how they want to play. We also have dangerous players so it’s going to be a great game to watch.”

Modiba’s comments underline the importance Sundowns place on avoiding successive defeats. Their immediate objective is to respond in the league, while the second leg against Golden Arrows remains a significant part of the wider schedule.

A win against AmaZulu would allow Sundowns to restore confidence after the MTN8 disappointment and continue their impressive home league record. However, Modiba expects a competitive encounter against an AmaZulu side that will be well rested and clear about its approach.

The result against Golden Arrows means Sundowns cannot afford another defeat if they are to maintain a positive rhythm before travelling to King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday. Their league meeting with AmaZulu therefore offers the African champions an opportunity to bounce back, while also providing another test against opponents who possess both pace and dangerous attacking players.

The focus, as Modiba made clear, is on the next match rather than the semi-final deficit. Sundowns must first negotiate AmaZulu before attempting to overturn the 1-0 scoreline against Golden Arrows.