Velebayi Reveals Da Cruz’s Demands Ahead Of Sundowns Showdown
Kaizer Chiefs winger Asanele Velebayi has acknowledged the challenge of facing African champions Mamelodi Sundowns as Amakhosi prepare for a highly anticipated Betway Premiership clash at FNB Stadium on Saturday.
Chiefs will play their third league match of the season and head into the encounter with confidence after winning their opening two games. Amakhosi currently sit at the top of the Betway Premiership standings with six points and will be looking to maintain their perfect start to the campaign.
However, they face a stern test against Sundowns, who will be playing their second league match of the season. The Brazilians also began their campaign with a victory, beating TS Galaxy in midweek, and will be hoping to make it two wins from two.
Velebayi is well aware of the challenge awaiting Chiefs and believes the team must approach the match with confidence and the right mentality.
“Obviously, first of all, we’re playing against the African champions, so I can imagine how tough it’s going to be,” he said.
“But we’re going into this game with confidence from winning our last game.
“I would say the confidence is high, the mentality is right because we know what is required.”
The 23-year-old also believes the demands of Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz could benefit the team in a match where they will need to be brave and prepared to handle the pressure.
Velebayi praised the French coach for constantly pushing his players to improve, even when they feel they are already giving their best.
“I’d say bravery, because what I’ve noticed and picked up about Coach Fernando is that he’s a very demanding coach,” he added.
“Even when you feel like you’re doing your best, he always wants that little bit extra from you. That’s one thing I’d say is positive about him.
“He’s always demanding and always wants more from his players.”
A victory for Chiefs would keep them at the top of the league standings and allow them to maintain their strong start to the campaign.
Sundowns, meanwhile, know that a win could take them to the top of the table, but they would need to score enough goals against Chiefs.
Their chances of moving into first place would also depend on the result between AmaZulu and Siwelele, as well as the match between Sekhukhune United and Polokwane City ending in a draw.
