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Durban - AmaZulu coach Roger Palmgren insists there is no easy time to play Mamelodi Sundowns ahead of their Telkom Knockout clash in Durban this weekend.
Like Usuthu, the Brazilians have endured a torrid campaign thus far and sit third-bottom on the Premiership log with five points, the same number as their cup opponents for Saturday.
“I don’t think there is any good time to play Sundowns,” Palmgren said on Wednesday.
“They have quality players and you have to respect that.
“If they are on the top and doing well, it could be easier to meet them because you may be able to capitalise on some overconfidence.
“Right now they may be more annoyed than ever and really want to prove a point. That makes them a very dangerous team.”
The two clubs have similar records this season having played eight games each in the league, with one win, two draws and five defeats.
Both drew their games over the past weekend, adding to opening wins in the cup when AmaZulu overcame Platinum Stars 2-1 and Sundowns saw off University of Pretoria 1-0.
“This is a new game, a fresh start and it is a cup match of course," Palmgren said.
“We’re just focusing on what we need to do.”
The Swedish coach, whose side held defending league champions Orlando Pirates to a goalless draw at the weekend, hoped their season was now about to take a turn for the better.
“You never know about the future, but hopefully it is the turning point,” he said.
He praised the way they kept their shape against the Buccaneers and felt there were good positives to build on ahead of the weekend.
“It’s quite natural that when you do well in a couple of games then the morale is boosted,” Palmgren said.
“On that note, I’m quite happy with the way the players have been keeping the mood up in the camp.
“I have to commend them for that despite the very tough times the club is going through.”
He also confirmed that midfielder Kulegani Madondo will miss the clash due to a family bereavement.
The former Maritzburg United player joins captain Tapuwa Kapini, Belux Kasonga and Ramson Zhuwawo on the sidelines.
Meanwhile, Thokozani Mshengu, Nyiko Tshabangu and Kagiso Senamela are all available again.
