Sundowns trio singing from same hymn sheet
UNDERSTANDING: THEY KNOW EACH OTHER’S PLAY SO WELL
Brazilians now turn their attention to Kaizer Chiefs.
Themba Zwane believes the understanding he has developed with Percy Tau and Sibusiso Vilakazi at Mamelodi Sundowns played a major role as they all scored for Bafana Bafana in last weekend’s 3-1 2018 Fifa World Cup qualifying win over Burkina Faso.
Zwane scored Bafana’s second goal, while Tau got the first and set up Vilakazi for the third with a brilliant assist.
“Because we play together here (at Sundowns), and understand each other, our combinations become stronger in each and every game, and it is a good thing that we can take it from here to the national team,” said Zwane yesterday, adding that Sundowns’ participation in the Caf Champions League has also helped at international level.
The Brazilians won the 2016 Champions League and reached the quarterfinals of this year’s edition.
“It has had a factor, because if you check, the national team and the Champions League is not much different, you find the same tempo. Tactically teams are good and aerially they are stronger.”
Sundowns return to domestic action on Tuesday when they take on Kaizer Chiefs in the Absa Premiership at Loftus Versfeld.
Chiefs have been struggling for consistency again this season under Steve Komphela, but Zwane is wary of Amakhosi’s abilities.
“They are still a strong side, no games are the same and we won’t judge them on their previous games,” said Zwane.
“You never know what to expect against them, it is a big game, they are also motivated and are looking forward to playing this game, so it will be tough, but we are ready for everything.”
Sundowns have only played four league games so far this season because of their Champions League commitments, but have won three of them, and are well-positioned already to mount another title challenge.
It is unclear whether Chiefs will be able to do the same, with Steve Komphela under serious scrutiny into his third season as head coach without a major trophy.
Chiefs also have their injury worries in defence, with Lorenzo Gordinho, Ramahlwe Mphahlele and Tsepo Masilela all still out.
“I am aware of that, they also have a big squad and can patch up here and there. But it is not our problem, we are only focusing on ourselves and how to approach the game,” added Zwane.