Premiership leaders Mamelodi Sundowns are expecting a stiff challenge against giant killers Free State Stars in the Nedbank Cup semi-finals, according to Downs defender Method Mwanjali.
Stars, who eliminated Kaizer Chiefs and defending champions Orlando Pirates in the previous two rounds, were drawn against the Brazilians on Monday.
“It is up to us as players to win the game against Stars but they are going in with lots of spirit,” Mwanjali said.
“They will be working as hard as we will to win.”
In the other semi-final clash, SuperSport United were pitted against Amazulu.
SuperSport and Sundowns were drawn as the home teams for the penultimate round of the knockout competition.
Mwanjali was pleased that his side had been handed a home fixture.
“We are happy to play at home because we have the home supporters,” he said.
“I think it will be a tough game for us, so whether we are playing home or away, we will try hard to win the game.”
Meanwhile, Stars striker Aleni Lebyane said they looked forward to testing themselves against the league leaders in the knockout competition.
“We are very excited with the draw and we want to do well against a big side like Sundowns,” Lebyane said.
“We have done well to get to the semi-finals and we are close (to lifting the title), so we will be motivated to play in the final.”
The venues for the semi-finals will be decided at a later stage. – Sapa