How Mamelodi Sundowns will use FIFA break

There are no midweek games ahead of the MTN8 final between Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch FC on Saturday in Durban.

With the FIFA break in place soon after the clash at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, it means Sundowns don’t play until the weekend of 18 October.

“We will try to have some friendly matches in between. It’s a bit unfortunate because we did think it would have helped us to play in the week of the MTN8 final so as to alleviate pressure on our side. But unfortunately it did not happen,” Mngqithi said.

The Brazilians have once again made it into the group stages of the CAF Champions League, with the draw scheduled next week in Cairo – and those matches will mean a congested program for Sundowns, who also have a number of internationals who will be involved in the Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON] qualifiers over the next few days all over the continent.

Mngqithi added that they will try manage the load on players.

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“We also use these FIFA break to give our players a little bit of a breather because we know the schedule ahead is going to be very tough. But we will have to play at least two friendlies,” the coach explained.

The PSL will also confirm the draw for the Carling Black Label Cup opening round early next week, with the competition getting underway soon after the FIFA break.