Sundowns won’t take Gallants lightly
PRETORIA – Mamelodi Sundowns and holders Marumo Gallants go in hunt of Nedbank Cup glory when they contest the 2022 final at the Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace today, bringing the curtain down on their seasons.
Gallants lifted the trophy last year when they defeated Chippa United 1-0 in the final, while Sundowns were winners the year before that as they ousted Bloemfontein Celtic with the same scoreline.
It means there will be repeat success for one of the two sides, with Gallants looking to become just the second team to claim back-to-back Nedbank Cup title wins after SuperSport United in 2016 and 2017.
They are already winners in a sense in that whatever happens in the decider, they will once again represent South Africa in the CAF Confederation Cup next season, with Sundowns to compete in the CAF Champions League.
The Brazilians are seeking a fourth title since they won the inaugural Nedbank Cup in 2008, having since added wins in 2015 and 2020.
But while they may carry the favourites tag, co-coach Manqoba Mngqithi is under no illusions as to the task at hand.
“This is going to be one of the most difficult matches,” he said. “When doing video analysis, we realised that the most important thing we need to do is have respect for the game and opponents.
“We must understand that the game of football does not owe us anything. We are up against a very good team. They have a lot of players who are capable of playing for Sundowns.
“I have experienced most of them and the fierce battle in this game will be in the midfield. Miguel Timm is important for them there and has a full range of passes. Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo and Celimpilo Ngema are very instrumental in the space between the midfield and defence. They are a decent and interesting team to watch.