Komphela set for emotional Downs return

Moroka Swallows FC coach Steve Komphela expects an emotional return to his former side as the Dube Birds prepare to take on Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 quarterfinals at the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium on Saturday.

Kick-off is at 3:00pm (SA, GMT+2)

MATCH BACKGROUND

In last season's MTN8 bid, Downs faced SuperSport United in the quarterfinals and claimed a 2-0 win at the the Tuks Stadium. The Brazilians then faced Orlando Pirates in the semifinals where they recorded a 0-0 draw in the first leg. Nonetheless, Pirates claimed an emphatic 3-0 win over the Chloorkop side in the return leg, as they eventually went on to win the lucrative title.

Swallows last featured in the MTN8 during the 21/22 season, where they claimed a 2-1 win over the Buccenears in the quarterfinals. The Dube Birds then faced Cape Town City in the semis, where the two sides played to a 0-0 stalemate in the first encounter. In the second-leg, City booked their ticket to the final via a 4-0 win at the Dobsonville Stadium.

PREVIOUS MEETINGS

Sundowns hold the upper hand over Swallows in the head-to-head battle, particularly in the last five games played between the two sides. The Brazilians managed to record three victories against the Dube Birds in the last handful of matches, with two stalemates played during this period.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Mamelodi Sundowns:

Marcelo Allende: The Chilean has been one of, if not the best player for Sundowns during the opening matches of the 2023/24 campaign. As the heartbeat of the team, Allende will be a threat to the Swallows midfield and defence, given his ability to run the show in the middle of the park.

Moroka Swallows:

Andile Jali: As a former Brazilian, Jali could well be eager to prove a point against