Mamelodi Sundowns keep focus on Kaizer Chiefs as they chase historic double

Mamelodi Sundowns are approaching the decisive run-in of the season with composure, focusing firmly on the present as they prepare to face rivals Kaizer Chiefs without looking too far ahead.

Sundowns are chasing a historic double – the Betway Premiership and CAF Champions League titles. They are well positioned on both fronts, holding an advantage over Orlando Pirates in the league and set to face AS FAR in the Champions League final.

With the first leg of the final scheduled for May 17 in Pretoria and the return leg in Rabat on May 24, Sundowns could wrap up the league title beforehand if results go their way and Pirates falter.

Defender Grant Kekana emphasised that the team’s immediate priority remains their league fixtures, starting with the clash against Chiefs at a sold-out Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday night (7.30pm kick-off).

“We are taking it one game at a time,” Kekana told Sundowns’ media department. “The focus right now is Kaizer Chiefs. When we get to the final, that’s when we’ll prepare and focus on it. We will be ready to achieve a positive result.”

Sundowns head into the match as clear favourites. They are unbeaten in 14 league games, won the reverse fixture away, and boast superior squad depth.

However, Kekana is wary of underestimating Chiefs. Despite their recent defeat to Siwelele, which ended Amakhosi’s own seven-match unbeaten run, he believes they remain a formidable opponent, particularly given their improvement this year.

“It’s going to be a tough game. They’ve done well, especially in the second half of the season, to put themselves in a strong position,” Kekana said.

“Despite their loss to Siwelele, we know the form they’ve shown. We are aware of their strengths and will plan to neutralise them. It will be a difficult match, but one we will be fully prepared for.”

Chiefs will arrive in Pretoria motivated not only by their own ambitions of securing a top-three finish, but also by the hopes of their arch-rivals Pirates.

A Chiefs victory could help Pirates stay in the title race, particularly if they drop points against Stellenbosch.

Kekana acknowledged the pressure and significance of this stage of the season, highlighting the importance of Sundowns’ recent back-to-back wins over Polokwane City, both home and away.

“It was crucial for us to get those wins after drawing our previous two matches,” he said. “The confidence is back among the players, and the mood in the camp is positive. We are looking forward to Wednesday’s game.”

There is plenty at stake, and a win for Sundowns could add to the celebrations after coach Miguel Cardoso was named Betway Premiership Coach of the Month for a third consecutive time this year.

“Congratulations to the coach and the technical team,” Kekana said. “They’ve done an excellent job, especially in keeping the squad fit and competitive.

“But it’s a collective effort. We are all working hard to maintain consistency in our results, and the coach fully deserves the recognition.”