Platinum Stars face yet another tough task in defending their Telkom Knockout title when they host league champions Mamelodi Sundowns in the second semi-final at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
The Telkom Knockout champions advanced to the semi-finals by edging Kaizer Chiefs 5-3 on penalties following a goalless draw in 120 minutes of play at the FNB Stadium. Allan Freese’s decision to field experienced goalkeeper Siyabonga Mpontshane payed dividends. Mpontshane gave his defence some inspiration by making some providing much-needed stability as he made crucial saves when called to action. Platinum have had no joy in the league this season as they currently sit second from bottom with only two wins and two draws from nine matches. Dikwena have picked up a mere two points out of a possible 18 in their last six league games. However, Freese will hope the win against Chiefs proves to be their turning point. Last season they beat Chiefs 1-0 in the semi-finals and went on to beat Pirates 2-1 to claim the Telkom Knockout Title.
Mamelodi Sundowns booked their spot in the semi-finals of the Telkom Knockout with a 2-1 win after extra-time over AmaZulu at Loftus Stadium. After goals from Cuthbert Malajila and Bongani Ndulula, the match could not be settled in normal time and it was Hlompho Kekana who broke the deadlock in the second half of extra-time with a rocket of a shot from just outside the box. Sundowns have been inconsistent this season but remain unbeaten in their last eight matches. The Brazilians will welcome back the influential Lebohang Mokoena who has been hard at training for the past few weeks since returning from injury. Sundowns fell 12 points behind league leaders Kaizer Chiefs on Wednesday night after being held to a goalless draw at home to Mpumalanga Black Aces. That means Sundowns have now drawn four matches in a row (in 90 minutes). They dominate possession but tend to lack ideas in the final third. Their players are also guilty of wasting the chances they do create.
Sundowns last played away to Platinum Stars last season in the league and came away 3-1 winners. Platinum Stars’ 1-0 win over Chippa United in the first round of the Telkom Knockout is their only victory in their last 10 matches. Sundowns have been the superior side between the two this season and they should claim the win in normal time after being held to four draws in a row.
