Coach Rulani has admitted to being impressed by how his men trained this week and has backed them to emerge victorious when they conclude the 2023/24 season at the Nedbank Cup final against Orlando Pirates at a sold-out Mbombela Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The Brazilians secured a seventh successive DStv Premiership title at the weekend and will now look to secure the Nedbank Cup title on Saturday to complete the treble dream this season.
Looking ahead of what will be a mouthwatering clash against their Soweto-based counterparts, coach Rulani confidently stated that his charges have prepared enough for the encounter and will give it their all to ensure that they lift the silverware at the end of the 90 minutes.
“I was very excited that we had some training time. I haven’t had training time with these players and I enjoyed the last two training sessions. The quality, intensity and energy. We trained like a team that just lost a football match and I was very happy with the reaction, especially because we hardly trained this season. This week, I’ve been able to see the players do different things. I’ve been able to stimulate, try and stress them a little bit more. It’s been the biggest positive in having a neutral week,” he stated.
“We have to play and get the job done. It’s a cup final which is a completely different competition. We just have to make sure that we win the title, lift the trophy and finish the season on a high. This is what this group deserves and hopefully we can do that on Saturday,” he enthusiastically continued.
Sharing the news on injury updates, the Masandawana head coach stated it’s too soon to decide on who will be part of the squad. He said: “it’s too early to tell. There are a few concerns with the flu and one or two injuries but we will give it up until the last minute to make decisions because they are very important players for us.”
Coach Rulani concluded by stating that he anticipates a good game of football due to the magnitude of the two sides that are meeting.
“I think it’s just the magnitude of the clubs and the profiling of the players. You are bound to have a great match. In a football match you need three good teams and I know that we will have one good team that is very prepared. I’m 100% sure that we will be ready and I hope the other teams are just as ready to play the right curtain raiser for what has been a very good season.”
Mamelodi Sundowns will clash against Orlando Pirates at the Nedbank Cup final on Saturday afternoon at Mbombela Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 15H00, live on SuperSport TV and SABC Sports.
SOURCED FROM THE CLUB’S WEBSITE.
