Mamelodi Sundowns captain Themba Zwane admits they expecting a tough challenge against Stellenbosch, who he feels won’t be too affected by the exit of Sibongiseni Mthethwa to Kaizer Chiefs.
Zwane, 34, has been at his consistent best once more this season despite not being the main source of goals and assists within his playmaker role.
Head coach Rulani Mokwena has used his in bursts with only one full 90 minutes from the 11 games played across all competitions.
But he’s expected to play a key role when they face a wounded Stellenosch side, who suffered an MTN8 semi-final exit despite beating Orlando Pirates 1-0 this past weekend.
“It’s going to be difficult, it’s that game where Stellenbosch is always looking to use their pace in front,” Zwane said.
“They are gonna sit back and try and catch us on the counter. Obviously, as a team, we know what to do, take care of the ball and try to manage the game very well, take our chances. They have Rayners up front, they use him a lot going forward, he has pace, technique and he’s their main player now.”
Mshishi feels they won’t alter their usual system that much based on what coach Steve Barker has implemented at the club and on viewing how they fared against the Buccaneers at Orlando Stadium.
“I don’t think [they will be weaker without Ox], if you check coach [Steve] Barker, the way they do things – he always has someone that is similar to the player that’s left,” Zwane said ahead of their clash.
“I mean he’s got a lot of players who are quick on the ball, players who are aggressive on the ball – they are fast, it’s difficult to play against [and] I don’t think they will change much.
“I’ve been watching them against Pirates, we know what to expect, we know what to do – as for us, it’s the last day of preparation, we’re going to finish off preparation and try to be sure on what we’re going to do in tomorrow’s game.”
League leaders Sundowns host the Cape Winelands outfit who are in 13th with seven points from seven games at the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium on Wednesday (19h30)
