Sekhukhune United and Cape Town City will begin their 2024/25 PSL campaign with the MTN8 action with both sides setting their sights on the semi-final spot.
Both clubs participated in the competition last season but were eliminated in the first round.
They returned this season after securing top-half finishes in the 2023/24 campaign. Sekhukhune finished in fourth place, while the Citizens ended the season in fifth position.
Babina Noko were hammered by trophy holders Orlando Pirates 5-0 at Orlando Stadium where striker Zakhele Lepasa hit the hat-trick for the home side.
Meanwhile, the Eric Tinkler-led outfit was downed 2-1 by Kaizer Chiefs.
While the Limpopo club, Sekhukhune are still aiming for their first silverware in the top-flight, City will be seeking their second MTN8 trophy having lifted it in 2018 under the guidance of Benni McCarthy.
They also lost in the in finals in 2017 and 2021.
Head-to-head
It could be a closely contested match with both sides possessing strong squads and having made good acquisitions in this transfer window.
Last seasons, the two sides met twice in the league with Sekhukhune coming out victorious 1-0 in the first round while the second round ended in a 2-2 stalemate.
Overall, the clubs have had five meetings in all competitions since Sekhukhune were promoted. Both sides won twice and the other one was drawn.
What have the coaches said?
Sekhukhune coach Peter Hyballa stated he was looking forward to play an official match having been participating in friendly matches during pre-season. He believes they are ready to take on City.
“We’ve done a lot preparing,” said Peter Hyballa.
“I enjoy working with the team, it’s been good.
“You know I hate friendly matches. I don’t like friendly matches and I’m looking forward to the next weekend.”
Meanwhile, Cape Town City mentor Eric Tinkler admitted Sekhukhune clash would be tough. However, he’s confident new signings will be helpful.
“Sekhukhune has always been a tough game,” said Tinkler. “Very, very good players, so we know it’s gonna be a difficult match for us away from home.
“We got time to come to Polokwane and spent five days there, played some friendlies and I’m happy with the performance of the team.
“We made quite a few signings this season. We have got a lot more depth and expressed in our squad which will build well for the rest of the season.
“We want to start on a positive note and find ourselves moving on in this competition.”
Time and where to watch
The match will take place on Saturday, 10 August at the Peter Mokaba Stadium from 3pm. Tickets sell at R60 at TicketPro and TicketPro outlets and the match will be broadcast live on SuperSport PSL (Channel 202).
