Nedbank Cup final matchups
As Saturday’s Nedbank Cup finalists — league strugglers Chippa United and Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila — prepare to face off at the Free State Stadium, Sihle Ndebele picks three match-ups that could play a decisive role.
Nyiko Mobbie and Thabo Mnyamane
Mobbie, 26, is an adventurous fullback, with a penchant for lung-bursting runs down the flank.
However, the defender appears to have been struggling defensively, a weakness Mnyamane can capitalise on to creep into Chippa’s final third.
Mobbie and company must also try to guard against committing fouls in dangerous areas because Mnyamane is a deadly set-piece specialist.
The 26-year-old Mnyamane boasts four goals and four assists in all competitions this season.
Augustine Kwem and Alfred Ndengane
Kwem’s main weapon in vanquishing defenders is physique, an attribute Ndengane is also blessed with.
This means the duel will be a physical contest.
The sturdy 23-year-old Nigerian striker is also gifted with pace and that could put Ndengane on the back foot as the ex-Orlando Pirates centre-half is not the fastest of defenders. Ndengane’s ability to read the game should help him counter Kwem’s agility.
Kwem has found the back of the net five time in all competitions this term, with four assists.
Miguel Timm and Sizwe Mdlinzo
Timm, 29, is arguably the best passer of the ball in the PSL and his inch-perfect passes are what Tshakhuma need to dictate terms.
On the other hand, Mdlinzo, who is the same age as Timm, is explosive, thanks to his creativity and tireless energy.
Should both Timm and Mdlinzo come to the party, this Ke Yona clash will be mouthwatering. Most football matches are won in the midfield, meaning these two players hold the key to success of their respective outfits.