Kaizer Chiefs winger Asanele Velebayi says the club will approach Saturday’s clash against African champions Mamelodi Sundowns with confidence but insists they must remain calm and disciplined when the two sides meet at FNB Stadium.
Amakhosi head into the highly anticipated Betway Premiership encounter on the back of a positive start to the campaign, with their midweek victory over Sekhukhune United moving them to the top of the table.
Velebayi believes Chiefs can use that momentum as they prepare for a significantly tougher challenge against Sundowns, who come into the fixture as the reigning African champions.
“For me, coming from a decent pre-season I would say – continuing to look forward and looking forward to build from [the start we’ve had],” he said.
The winger acknowledges the magnitude of Saturday’s fixture, with Sundowns representing one of the sternest tests Chiefs can face domestically.
“We’re playing against the African champions so it’s going to be rough, but we have confidence from our last game,” Velebayi said.
“The confidence is high; the mentality is right because we know what is required.”
Chiefs will be looking to match Sundowns’ intensity while ensuring they do not allow the occasion to affect their approach.
For Velebayi, maintaining composure could be just as important as the tactical battle, particularly with a packed FNB Stadium expected to add another dimension to the encounter.
“The pressure is there, we need to stay calm throughout the game, stick to the game plan, put the team first and approach the game with the right mentality,” he added.
The game is scheduled to take place on Saturday afternoon at 15h00.
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