Sundowns turn attention to Milford after securing MTN8 final place

Mamelodi Sundowns have switched their attention to Wednesday’s league meeting with Milford after reaching the MTN8 final, where they will face reigning competition specialists Orlando Pirates on 10 October at a venue yet to be confirmed.

The Brazilians overcame Golden Arrows in their two-legged semi-final to reach the decider for only the sixth time in their history. Defender Malibongwe Khoza said the achievement was particularly significant because Sundowns wanted to answer criticism that they do not place enough importance on domestic competitions.

“It [reaching the MTN8 final] feels amazing because it’s something that we’ve always wanted to achieve, especially since a lot of people are complaining that we don’t put enough focus on local competitions, so we made sure that we reach the final and we will try to win it,” Khoza stated.

Before they can focus fully on the contest against Orlando Pirates, Sundowns face a league test against Milford at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday night.

Milford, one of the league’s newcomers, have made an encouraging start to life in the top flight. They have taken two victories from their opening four matches, alongside one defeat and one draw, and have already shown signs of becoming one of the division’s surprise packages.

Khoza expects a lively challenge from the visitors, whose approach is likely to test Sundowns on the counter-attack.

“We are expecting a very energetic team, a very counter-attacking team. However, we are ready for them and we will give our all for our supporters,” Khoza said.

Sundowns will then face another league assignment on Sunday, when they visit Golden Arrows at King Zwelithini Stadium for a 15:00 kick-off.

The upcoming league fixtures are:

Wednesday Mamelodi Sundowns v Milford, Loftus Versfeld Stadium, 19:30

Friday Gallants v Polokwane, Royal Bafokeng, 19:30 Richards Bay v AmaZulu, Princess Magogo, 19:30

Saturday Chippa v Milford, Nelson Mandela Bay, 15:00 Sekhukhune v Galaxy, Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, 17:30

Sunday Golden Arrows v Mamelodi Sundowns, King Zwelithini Stadium, 15:00 Kaizer Chiefs v Siwelele, Dobsonville, 17:30

In continental competition, Orlando Pirates will travel to Mauritius on Sunday for their CAF Champions League fixture against La Cure Sylvester. The match will be played at the Cote d’Or National Sports Complex and will begin at 13:30.

Durban City will also be in action on Sunday in the CAF Confederation Cup. They host Burundi’s Rukinzo at Moses Mabhida Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00.