Former Kaizer Chiefs legend Jimmy Tau believes tomorrow night’s showdown between Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns will be a defining moment for the Amakhosi.
“Chiefs’ game against Sundowns will be a test whether the Amakhosi can challenge for the title this season,” Tau told Showmax.
Tau has been impressed by Chiefs’ strong start to the season, having won all of their opening fixtures in the league. He says their winning start has set them on a “positive start compared to last season”, and says he sees promising signs that the team is headed in the right direction.
While acknowledging the quality of the other teams Chiefs has played, Tau believes the match against a “wounded” Sundowns will be the true test. “This will demonstrate how ready they are to contest the league,” he added.
Despite Sundowns coming off a loss to Orlando Pirates, Tau sees them as a determined side. “Sundowns is wounded after losing to Pirates, and they will look into this game to redeem themselves and try to get a win to remain within touching distance to the leading pack.”
He predicts an intriguing battle, stating that both teams have an “equal chance to win.”
On the question of a title challenge, Tau is optimistic about his former club’s chances.
“Based on how they started the season and the new addition players they have brought into the team, they will definitely be counted amongst the teams that can potentially challenge for the league honours.”
Tau also acknowledges the formidable nature of Sundown’s dominance.
“Sundowns are very experienced when it comes to winning the league. Because of their ambition to dominate both domestically and internationally, they will definitely want to win the league and set a new record.”
Reflecting on his own playing days, Tau described the experience of featuring in such a big fixture. “It’s any ambitious player’s dream to feature in games of this stature. They come with a lot of pressure and expectations. Winning them is always special, but losing them hurts even more.”
When pressed for a score prediction, Tau opted for a “lovely draw”.
Adding to the pre-match excitement, former Chiefs and Sundowns striker Kenny Niemach believes that despite their recent setback, Sundowns remains the team to beat.
“Sundowns will always be regarded as title favourites. Despite a slight wobble early on, their quality, experience, and style of play set them apart,” says Niemach. “They’re a big club with a winning mentality, and I believe they’ll find their rhythm as the season progresses.”
Niemach is eagerly anticipating tomorrow night’s clash, describing it as a “very interesting encounter.”
He acknowledged Chiefs’ recent win against Richards Bay but is cautious about their chances of creating as many opportunities against Sundowns. He also highlighted Sundowns’ challenges, including the absence of Lucas Ribeiro and the psychological test of their recent defeat.
“Right now, it’s more about confidence for them. They are creating opportunities, but they haven’t been converting them as effectively as they should,” says Niemach.
“Both teams have challenges to overcome,” he added, but believes Sundowns has the experience and quality to regroup. “Chiefs, on the other hand, have confidence from their winning start, which could give them an edge. It’s all about who handles the pressure better on the day.”
