Defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns have moved their Betway Premiership match against Chippa United to Friday in an effort to lighten their congested fixture schedule as they pursue glory in this season’s CAF Champions League.
This change, however, presents an immediate challenge for coach Miguel Cardoso, who will have welcome back his international players on Wednesday, leaving them with minimal time to prepare for Friday’s game.
As a result, players like Teboho Mokoena, Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba, and Jayden Adams may not participate or could have a reduced role in the encounter.
With a critical Champions League semi-final against Esperance approaching next week, coupled with the need to prioritise that fixture as well as a possible final, this may be the lesser of two evils for Cardoso.
Despite Cardoso’s concerns regarding the scheduling of domestic matches prior to this pivotal Champions League encounter, the postponement requests have gone unheeded, as Sundowns are also set to face Durban City next Tuesday at Chatsworth Stadium. This is far from an ideal situation.
Following that, the team will head to Tunis for the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against Esperance on Sunday, April 12.
Typically, this upcoming weekend is dedicated to the Nedbank Cup semi-finals, and the Premier Soccer League has consistently refrained from scheduling league matches during cup weekends to maximise sponsor visibility.
Friday’s meeting with Chippa presents Sundowns with a chance to reclaim the top spot in the league standings. Currently, they sit one point behind Orlando Pirates, who have amassed 50 points but have played one match more than Sundowns.
Orlando Pirates will next host Lamontville Golden Arrows in Soweto on Tuesday.
Chippa United find themselves in a precarious position, sitting just two points above the relegation zone, having not registered a win in their last four league outings.
Compiled by SportArena.au
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