Ex- Kaizer Chiefs midfielder George Lebese discusses with Mamelodi Sundowns legends on how Nasreddine Nabi should approach the game - ‘They need to prolong conceding a goal'

Mamelodi Sundowns hold a 26-point lead over Kaizer Chiefs, despite Amakhosi having a game in hand. Masandawana have already beaten Chiefs twice this season, winning 2-1 in the league and 4-1 in the Carling Knockout.

Nasreddine Nabi has struggled with consistency, leaving his side in eighth place on the log. Former Chiefs attacker, George Lebese, alongside Sundowns legends Hlompho Kekana and Teko Modise, discussed how the Tunisian coach should approach the upcoming clash.

Chiefs have lacked attacking efficiency, and their defensive frailties have been exposed in key matches. Sundowns, on the other hand, have been ruthless in front of goal, dominating both domestically and in continental competitions. With the two sides set to meet at Lucas Moripe Stadium, all eyes will be on how Nabi sets up his side against the relentless champions.

Teko Modise, George Lebese, and Hlompho Kekana had an insightful discussion on the Pitchside Podcast about how Kaizer Chiefs should approach their upcoming clash against Mamelodi Sundowns.

“How then do you implement that emotional intelligence?" Modise asked. "Okay, the longer we go at Sundowns, we are gonna struggle with the ball, but maybe we stand a chance. But if you concede early, then what do we do? We open the game up, we go and try a pound-for-pound. So, then, how do you approach such a game? It is a big game.”

Lebese replied, “I wouldn’t want to be in a change room of Kaizer Chiefs because what do I say to the players? Who do you stop? Yeah. You can’t stop anyone. And when you are on the other side, then you know who to stop. You know? Okay. For Chiefs, they need to prolong conceding a goal.”

Kekana, joining in on the conversation, said: “If I was a coach of that Kaizer Chiefs team, I was easily gonna say, now I’m going defensive. Let me go Stoke City mentality—nine defenders, one striker—and I’m trying to do what George [Lebese] is saying, drag the magic for as long as you can. Because we saw what happened at FNB when the score went to five; it’s because they conceded early.”

Miguel Cardoso's Sundowns have been relentless despite a congested fixture schedule, maintaining their attacking dominance. However, they will be without key players Aubrey Modiba and Denis Onyango due to suspension, while first-choice goalkeeper Ronwen Williams is out injured.

Chiefs, on the other hand, have had a ten-day break since their 4-1 loss to SuperSport United and used this time for a team-building camp. The Soweto giants will be hoping that their refreshed squad can pose a real challenge to the log leaders.

Chiefs have also bolstered their squad with new additions, including Godly Lilepo, who has scored three goals in four matches. Thabo Cele has impressed since joining, with club legend Frank Makua believing he can play a crucial role against the Brazillians.

The highly anticipated clash against Chiefs, which sold out within three hours, is expected to be a thrilling encounter. With the strongest defence in the league, Sundowns will look to nullify Chiefs' attacking threats and continue their dominance.

Chiefs will need to be disciplined and take their chances, as any mistakes could be punished by Sundowns' lethal attack.