PREVIEW: Kaizer Chiefs vs Sekhukhune United -Team News, & More

The fixture comes at an interesting time for both sides after contrasting results in the MTN8 quarter-finals.

Team news

Kaizer Chiefs will be determined to respond after their disappointing MTN8 exit. The Amakhosi were beaten 1-0 by Golden Arrows on Sunday, ending their hopes of progressing to the semi-finals. Coach Fernando Da Cruz has backed his squad to learn from the defeat rather than blame individual players.

Defender Thabiso Monyane has also called on Chiefs to use the disappointment as motivation ahead of a demanding week that includes this match against Sekhukhune and a meeting with Mamelodi Sundowns.

Sekhukhune, meanwhile, arrived with plenty of confidence after producing one of the most dramatic results of the MTN8 quarter-finals. They defeated AmaZulu 4-3 after extra time, booking their place in the last four.

That victory has also given Sekhukhune another major cup challenge to look forward to, with Orlando Pirates drawn as their MTN8 semi-final opponents.

What is at stake?

For Chiefs, the priority is to get their league campaign moving in the right direction and put the MTN8 disappointment behind them.

For Sekhukhune, another strong result would reinforce the belief generated by their dramatic cup victory and give them momentum in the Premiership.

With Chiefs also facing Sundowns later in the week, managing the squad and maintaining momentum will be particularly important.

Players to watch

Thabiso Monyane — Kaizer Chiefs: The defender has been one of the voices calling for an immediate response after the MTN8 defeat and will be important in helping Chiefs regain defensive stability.

Sekhukhune’s attacking players: After scoring four goals against AmaZulu, Sekhukhune’s forwards will enter the match with considerable confidence. Their ability to exploit spaces could prove decisive against a Chiefs side looking to recover.

Prediction

Chiefs have home advantage and should be highly motivated after their MTN8 exit. Sekhukhune, however, come into the fixture with the confidence of a dramatic cup victory and qualification for the MTN8 semi-finals.

I expect a competitive encounter, but Chiefs should have enough at FNB Stadium to edge it bet with Bet.co.za.

Score prediction: Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 Sekhukhune United.