25th November 2023
Despite Mamelodi Sundowns not having played a league game since September, they maintain their position at the top of the table after SuperSport failed to capitalise on The Brazilians involvement in the inaugural African Football League.
Sundowns currently lead with 24 points from eight matches and hold four games in hand, with United occupying second place with 23 points from twelve matches.
Looking ahead to the Tshwane derby on Wednesday, Johannes expressed to SABC Sport that the race for the league title is far from over, insisting that Sundowns can still be overtaken before the end of the season.
"As much as you would say the league is far gone, it's not, if you look at the table itself. Obviously with respect to all our opponents, we want to go all the way [to winning the title]," said Johannes.
"And, if you just look at it from a broader perspective, we fell short of a couple of cups now, but there's obviously still more to come – there's still the Nedbank Cup as well.
"So, obviously, we'll work hard towards securing some silverware this season still."
While the Soweto Derby often dominates the spotlight in South African football, Johannes maintains the Tshwane derby holds its own significance as a fiercely contested affair, which will be on display at Lucas Moripe Stadium next Wednesday.
"Derbies are always big. I think, if you look at it, the talk will always be the Soweto derby, but the Tshwane derby is a massive occasion and it's for bragging rights as well," he added.
"Who wouldn't want to win it? So, obviously it's a massive encounter for us as a team, and obviously for the fans as well because you'd want to wear your jersey, going to work with pride the next day."