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Baroka out to hurt Sundowns' hopes

football19 April 2019 13:44| © Backpage TXT
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Wedson Nyirenda © Backpagepix

Baroka FC will battle with the defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns in an Absa Premiership match at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.

Kick-off is at 3pm CAT.

Bakgaga snapped their three match-losing run in the league when they defeated Kaizer Chiefs 1-0 away earlier this month.

As a result, Baroka are placed 14th on the league standings and they are only above the relegation play-off spot on goal-difference.

Meanwhile, Sundowns are now winless in their last two league matches having lost 2-0 to SuperSport United at home in midweek.

The defeat saw the Brazilians remain third on the league standings - six points behind the leaders, Orlando Pirates, but the former have two games in hand.

What are the teams saying?

Baroka coach Wedson Nyirenda

"If we can beat Chiefs at home at FNB Stadium, we can do well at home against Sundowns. We drew with them at their own home. But this time it will be a very different ball game," he said.

"They are chasing the championship and haven't yet won a trophy this season so they will be coming for us. We just have to put this game away and prepare for the next game."

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane

"I want to talk on behalf of Sundowns. It's not over because it's still possible," he said.

"If anybody believes that we can win the league, why can't we believe that we can win the league? It's possible, anything is possible."

Baroka key players

Elvis Chipezeze: The Zimbabwean goalkeeper is brimming with confidence after keeping a clean sheet against Kaizer Chiefs. Chipezeze will be keen to play an important role in helping Baroka avoid a defeat.

Tshediso Patjie: The attacker scored a beautiful free-kick against Chiefs which earned Baroka a narrow 1-0 win. Patjie will be hoping to find the back of the net again and help Baroka stun Sundowns.

Mamelodi Sundowns key players

Gaston Sirino: The Uruguayan attacking midfielder is set to return from suspension after missing Sundowns' last two league matches. Sirino has the ability to single-handedly inspire Sundowns to victory.

Lebohang Maboe: The South Africa international has been Sundowns' best striker in the league having netted eight goals. Maboe will be looking to add to his tally and help Sundowns win in Polokwane.

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