The heat is on in Kekana’s kitchen

IF TRAILING Mamelodi Sundowns by 3-0 doesn’t worry Zamalek, as they have constantly said, then the presence of Hlompho Kekana dictating terms in midfield should.

The Brazilians captain had to behave in the first leg of the Caf Champions League final at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday because he was one yellow card away from missing the second leg in Alexandria on Sunday.

Kekana played with a lot of caution, using his intelligence more than his muscle. He pulled out of numerous 50/50 situations because he didn’t want to risk missing the crucial leg in Egypt.

Wayne Arendse wasn’t that fortunate, picking up a caution that will see him watch the match from the stands. Arendse, along with a num- ber of Sundowns players who aren’t registered for the Champions League, travelled with the club to Egypt last night to be a part of what could be the most memorable night in Sundowns’ history – being crowned African champions for the first time.

For that to happen, Kekana needs to be at his best because he will not only have to control the midfield with Tiyani Mabunda, but to also cover for the defence that will have a new central pairing in Soumahoro Bangaly and Thabo Nthethe.

“It was hard because I played out of character,” Kekana said.

“I am always there in the kitchen, where it’s hot. But because of that yellow card I had to reserve myself and be a good boy, which was tough. I am happy that I managed to pass that test (and stay away from the referee’s book). I am now going into the second leg of the final where I will be myself.”

Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane was as cautions as his captain, replacing the players who were a booking away from suspension once the result was guaranteed and Arendse’s suspension was confirmed.

To overturn that 3-0 deficit, the White Knights will use every trick in the book.

Their chairman, Mortada Mansour, asked for 70 000 supporters to be allowed into Borg El-Arab Stadium, which seats 86 000.

But Egypt’s Interior Ministry has so far only allowed the club 35 000 supporters due to a spectator ban that has only been partially lifted.

The Brazilians should expect a passionate crowd that creates an electrifying atmosphere, and also tries to blind their opponents with lasers.