Johannesburg - Chippa United reserve team coach Glen Minnie says Sunday's MultiChoice Diski Challenge match against defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns will be a thriller.
“I expect Sundowns to come at us. We are also prepared to take the game to them, which will produce fireworks,” he said.
“They play an open and entertaining game,” he added.
Minnie is confident that his side, which is well prepared after playing friendly matches during the Christmas break, will come out victorious.
Both teams have young squads.
Development programme
The Port Elizabeth-based Chippa promoted 21-year-old Xolani Maholo and Gregory Damons to the first team, as well as Ayanda Manengele (20).
“They will be part of the squad [Sunday] for the first time, but Maholo played well in our match against AmaZulu FC,” Minnie said.
Yurigg Conwood was promoted from the club’s development programme at the beginning of last season.
The Chilli Boys have conceded 19 goals, one less than Sundowns’ 20, from nine games.
Both teams have scored 10 goals and have eight points each. The Brazilians are sitting in an unfamiliar 15th position, while Chippa sits one place above because of goal difference.
Tsakane Stadium will see Sundowns take on Chippa at 10:00. SuperSport United will play against Kaizer Chiefs at 12:00. AmaZulu will host Bidvest Wits at King Zwelithini Stadium at 10:00.
All matches will be broadcast live on SuperSport4 and SuperSport10.
Club coaches
Meanwhile, big teams will be hoping to avoid each other when the 2017/18 Nedbank Cup last 32 draw is conducted in Sandton on Monday.
The competition consists of 16 Premier Soccer League clubs, eight National First Division sides and eight from the South African Football Association leagues.
The draw is expected to be attended by all the club coaches.
Supporters can watch the draw live on SuperSport4 from 19:30.