In a repeat of their MTN8 semi-final encounters, Mamelodi Sundowns and Golden Arrows will lock horns once again, this time in the Carling Knockout Cup semi-final at Loftus Versfeld Stadium Tuesday evening.

Sundowns have had to bring this fixture forward as they prepare for their intercontinental assignment on Saturday, but their immediate focus will be on securing a place in the Carling Knockout final.

The Brazilians head into the encounter brimming with confidence after an emphatic 4-1 victory over Kaizer Chiefs in the Betway Premiership over the weekend. That result will provide Miguel Cardoso’s side with plenty of momentum as they look to maintain their winning form.

One player who will be looking to continue his impressive form is striker Iqraam Rayners, who has found the back of the net consistently and is now among the top 10 goalscorers.

Speaking ahead of the semi-final, Rayners expressed his satisfaction with his recent contribution, emphasising his determination to make the most of every opportunity he gets.

“It always feels good to score goals. Whenever I get the opportunity to play, I make use of it. Whether I’m coming on as a substitute or starting, I always want to help the team win games. For me, it’s a good feeling,” said Rayners.

The Sundowns striker is under no illusion about the challenge that awaits them, describing knockout football as particularly difficult because of the unpredictability of the opposition.

“Knockout games are always difficult because you don’t know what to expect from the other teams. But as a team, we know how to win games like these, especially when things get difficult. Our analysts will give us feedback and information about Golden Arrows and their previous game. Hopefully, we can get the result and progress to the final.”

Rayners believes Sundowns will need to be clinical in front of goal, particularly given the opportunities they tend to create against Arrows.

“We always create a lot of opportunities against them, but we need to make sure we punish them as early as possible. Once we score first, we know the game will open up. That’s the most important thing going into this match.”

Golden Arrows, meanwhile, will be looking to make a statement under new head coach Mandla Ncikazi, who recently took over following the departure of Pitso Dladla.

However, Ncikazi’s first match in charge ended in a 1-0 defeat against AmaZulu in the KwaZulu-Natal derby.

Despite the coaching change, Rayners expects a well-organised opponent but insists Sundowns will remain focused on their own game.

“I think the Golden Arrows coach is a good coach. Especially when teams play against Sundowns, they know how to set up. But for us as a team, we just need to do our job, be confident on the ball and work as hard as possible to win the game and get the result.”

With a place in the final at stake, Sundowns will be counting on their attacking firepower and experience to navigate what promises to be a challenging encounter.

Rayners also had a message for the Sundowns faithful, urging supporters to turn out in numbers and get behind the team.

“Masandawana, please come out in numbers. Be behind the boys, push us and we will do it for you guys.”

For Sundowns, the objective is clear: secure victory, book a place in the final and maintain the momentum ahead of their upcoming intercontinental assignment.

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