To whet the appetite for the new season, Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs clash early on in the DStv Premiership and as with all the big games, the 'favourites and underdogs' tags don't always prove to be right.
Chiefs left their supporters wondering where their goals would come from after they struggled to create clear-cut chances in a goalless draw against Chippa United on Sunday.
However, playing against Sundowns would present them a different challenge and their game plan could be completely different compared to the one against the Chilli Boys.
Soccer Laduma looks at factors that could make Chiefs pose a great danger to the Brazilians.
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Against Chippa, Chiefs were more on the ball, playing against a deep block but against Sundowns they are more likely to settle to play on counter-attacks.
With the Brazilians expected to take the game to Amakhosi, Molefi Ntseki could look to exploit the space on transitions, with the pace of Ashley Du Preez, Christian Saile Basomboli and even Tebogo Potsane in the pockets.
Sundowns head coach Rulani Mokwena admitted that he expects Chiefs to be more conservative than they were last season under Arthur Zwane.
"I don't think Chiefs, when I looked at their game against Chippa, I don't think they are a type of team to play very open, I think a little bit more conservative than last season," Mokwena said in a press conference.
Element of surprise
Chiefs' build-up and attacking schemes could catch Sundowns by surprise, given the number of new signings.
What new signing Edson Castillo brings in midfield is the balance that Amakhosi lacked last season while the attacking potential of fellow newcomers, Potsane, Mduduzi Mdantsane, Pule Mmodi and Ranga Chivaviro is yet to be unleashed.
Improvement in centre-back pairing
Chiefs conceded a lot of goals in the centre of defence last season and could not find a better combination and that cost them a lot of games and points.
However, with a strong base of Thatayaone Ditlhokwe and Given Msimango at the back, they would have the ability to suffer in matches, without conceding unnecessarily, which would make them more dangerous on transitions.
Mokwena also highlighted Chiefs' new centre-back pairing as an area that looks to have improved from last season.
"Their two centre-backs give them a lot of stability this year (season), a lot stronger in defending the box with Ditlhokwe and Msimango," Mokwena stated.
However, for Chiefs to get something out of the Sundowns game, they would need to take their chances.
"You're gonna think I'm crazy, it's a game that could go either way. I think Chiefs will raise their game no doubt, I think Sundowns will improve on their opening game against Sekhukhune," renowned agent Mike Makaab said on Gagasi FM.
"So, a lot depends on who takes their chances. If Chiefs create chances they need to take them because you're not gonna get many playing against Sundowns," he added.
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