How Sundowns will neutralise Magesi's threat in cup final

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Mamelodi Sundowns defender Mosa Lebusa has detailed his team’s defensive approach as they prepare to face Magesi FC in the Carling Knockout Cup final.

This David versus Goliath showdown scheduled to be played on Saturday, November 23rd, at the Toyota Stadium [18:00] sets the stage for a thrilling encounter.

While Sundowns, with their star-studded line-up and years of dominance in the SA elite league, are the favourites, Magesi, the surprise package from the Motsepe Foundation Championship, are ready to defy expectations.

The Tshwane giants cruised through the Carling Knockout Cup tournament, defeating Golden Arrows 5-0 in the round of 16, Kaizer Chiefs 4-0 in the quarter-finals, and Marumo Gallants 2-0 in the semi-finals.

As for Magesi, they shocked Orlando Pirates as they won 3-2 in the first round. In the quarter-finals, Clinton Larsen’s side edged TS Galaxy 1-0 to book a spot in the semi-finals. Lastly, Magesi won 1-0 against Richards Bay FC.

LEBUSA SAYS SUNDOWNS WILL EMPLOY REST DEFENCE TO THWART MAGESI’S COUNTER-ATTACKS

Mamelodi Sundowns players celebrate a goal in the Carling Knockout Cup. Picture courtesy of Mamelodi Sundowns

Lebusa highlighted the need for a well-organised defensive line, even during attacking phases, to prevent Magesi from exploiting counter-attacks and counter-pressing.

Sundowns will rely on rest defence, a tactical approach that ensures the team maintains defensive solidity while possessing the ball, to neutralize Magesi’s threats.

“It’s always good to kill the game early. But I think the most important one will be the rest defence,” said Lebusa.

“When they [Magesi] break out they isolate the defenders so the rest defence is going to come in handy. We have to make sure we don’t lose balls in the dangerous areas.

“[We have to] play our normal game, get them to run and rotate the ball from side to side, or maybe go directly. We’ll have to hear from the coach about the game plan.

“From our side as defenders, we have already started talking about it, how we are going to solve the rest defence, make sure we have the midfield in front of us.”