The Chilli Boys, although still winless in the DStv Premiership after three matches, are oozing confidence after taking a point each from Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates this month.

Maema doesn’t expect the defending champions to have it easy.

"I think playing Chippa United is always a difficult match, especially in their own background. We are expecting a difficult, intense match, a very counterattack team. They are very quick on the sides. I think they are also motivated by playing those draws against Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs but we are expecting a very difficult match," Maema said.

Sundowns have refined their playing model under coach Rulani Mokwena this season with Maema still a key cog.

The player also identified Chippa’s strong areas.

"The wingers a very quick on the counterattack. I think that's their main strength. They also got some new players. Mammila [Morgan], Mulenga [Augustine], are also influential to them and their game plan. So, I think those are the players that are also causing a threat going forward but we'll make sure that we guard against such," Maema added.

Maema did not entertain criticism that the Brazilians have been sluggish in that start, talks that has emerged despite Sundowns being the only side with the 100 percent winning record so far in all competition.

"No, it's very important for us to focus on our goals. There are various stuff that are happening at the beginning of the season when we start to get the game closer together and to get our game plans also. It's only the start, the coach told us that. It's never gonna be easy this season, the people are gonna talk."

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