Nedbank Cup Midweek Multi and Predictions

Mamelodi Sundowns clinched their first domestic treble in the PSL era when they beat Bloemfontein Celtic in the final of last season’s Nedbank Cup. This season, the tournament takes on even greater importance than usual due to the cancellation of the Telkom Knockout.

Sundowns face a relatively tricky start to their cup defence, while rivals Swallows, Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs each face second-tier opponents.

Arguably the pick of the last 32 fixtures will be the Durban derby, which pits Benni McCarthy’s AmaZulu against an in-form Golden Arrows.

Here, we take a look at a select few of the fixtures on offer during the week. We’ll have another preview ahead of the weekend fixtures.

Mamelodi Sundowns v Stellenbosch

(Wednesday 3 February, 17:00)

Defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns host Steve Barker’s Stellenbosch at Loftus Versfeld. Masandawana were in cruise control in their last match, a 2-0 win over Chippa United, and could easily have had more goals.

However, they should not expect plain sailing against a feisty Stellies side which has remained in contention for a top eight finish in the league despite regularly contending with a lengthy absentee list.

Sundowns are top of the league and unbeaten in 15 Premiership matches, although they were eliminated from the MTN8 quarter-finals by Bloemfontein Celtic. 

Stellies, meanwhile, have only one away win from seven league matches on the road in 2020/21. Sundowns, therefore, have to be viewed as favourites come Wednesday.

Prediction: Sundowns Win 2-1

TTM v SuperSport United

(Thursday 4 February, 17:00)

TTM FC are in turmoil at the moment, although the recent change of ownership offers a light at the end of the tunnel. It is unlikely that they will have enough quality to compete with a SuperSport United side that looks set to mount a serious league title challenge.

These teams met in the league recently with SuperSport United winning 2-0 thanks to goals from Sipho Mbule and Bradley Grobler. TTM put up a decent fight in the first half, but their lack of confidence was evident and they eventually rolled over.

Grobler is the top flight’s top goalscorer with 12 strikes to his name and is likely to net in this match too. SuperSport United tend to be at their best in cup competitions and should pick up a comfortable win at Thohoyandou Stadium.

Prediction: SuperSport United Win 2-0

Maritzburg United v Sekhukhune United

(Friday 5 February, 17:00)

This is a match with potential for a major upset. Maritzburg United, who have lost their last three matches, host GladAfrica Championship outfit Sekhukhune United at the Harry Gwala Stadium on Friday.

Sekhukhune are top of the league and on a six-match unbeaten run, so they will fancy their chances against Ernst Middendorp’s men.

The Harry Gwala Stadium has lost some of its allure from previous seasons, but home advantage will still likely work in Maritzburg’s favour. They are tipped to progress to the next round, but only after a titanic battle and a regulation time draw.

Prediction: 1-1 Draw, Maritzburg United Win on Penalties