Mamelodi Sundowns winger Tashreeq Matthews has made it clear that the Brazilians are determined to defeat Marumo Gallants when the two teams meet in the Carling Knockout Round of 16.

The upcoming encounter gives Sundowns an opportunity to respond after Gallants eliminated them at the same stage of last season’s competition. With a place in the quarter-finals at stake, Matthews and his teammates are eager to avoid another early exit.

Matthews stressed that winning remains the priority as Sundowns prepare for the knockout fixture.

“We play to win and that is important. Fortunately, we are getting Marumo Gallants again and we want to win the game,” Matthews said, as quoted by iDiski Times.

His comments reflect the club’s determination to keep its hopes of lifting the Carling Knockout trophy alive.

Sundowns Eager to Settle the Score

Last season’s defeat will add extra motivation for Sundowns, who will be looking to turn their previous disappointment into a positive result this time around.

Although the Brazilians have established themselves as one of South Africa’s leading football clubs, their reputation and domestic success offer no guarantee of progress in knockout competitions.

Cup football can be unforgiving, with one match potentially bringing a team’s trophy ambitions to an end. Sundowns will therefore need to approach the encounter with the right balance of confidence, discipline and determination.

Matthews could play an important role in the team's attacking efforts as the Brazilians look to break down Gallants’ defence. His movement, pace and ability to take on opponents could help create opportunities in the final third.

However, Sundowns will need more than attacking quality to secure victory. They must also remain defensively organised and take advantage of the chances they create.

Marumo Gallants Could Pose Another Challenge

Gallants will enter the contest knowing they have already eliminated Sundowns at this stage of the competition. That previous success could provide confidence as they prepare to face the Tshwane giants again.

Sundowns, meanwhile, will be determined to prevent history from repeating itself and secure a place in the quarter-finals.

The Carling Knockout offers the Brazilians another opportunity to compete for domestic silverware, making the fixture particularly important for a team with high expectations.

For Matthews and his teammates, the mission is straightforward: defeat Gallants, advance to the next round and continue their pursuit of the trophy.

Matthews has made Sundowns’ intentions clear, but the decisive answer will come on the pitch when the two sides meet.

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