Mamelodi Sundowns’ key absences could leave the door ajar for Golden Arrows in MTN8 semi-final - 'They will have to make good choices'

The Brazilians head into the tie with key absences in Khuliso Mudau and Teboho Mokoena, potentially creating a tactical opening for Abafana Bes’thende to exploit.

Speaking about the possibility of an upset, Ramagalela pointed to the positive momentum currently driving the KwaZulu-Natal outfit.

"I think Golden Arrows have started the season well; they are a very exciting team with young players. It’s a game where they need to understand Mamelodi Sundowns’ weaknesses, which I believe Pitso Dladla has already worked on," Ramagalela told FARPost.

"I would like to see them win the battle in midfield because that’s where Sundowns are very strong."

The biggest blow for Sundowns is the long-term absence of Mudau, who has been sidelined for six months. The attack-minded right-back plays a crucial role in the Brazilians’ transition from defence to attack.

According to the retired PSL star, this leaves a void that Arrows could look to exploit on the break.

"With Khuliso Mudau out at Sundowns, I believe they stand a chance with the counterattacks they can create. They will have to ensure that they make good choices and decisions in the final third to be able to hurt Mamelodi Sundowns," he added.

While the loss of Mokoena in midfield is another concern for the technical team, Ramagalela believes Bafana Ba Style have enough depth and structural strength to absorb such setbacks.

The ability to call on a wealth of quality stars is what sets Sundowns apart from the rest of the South African football landscape.

"So, with Teboho Mokoena also on the sidelines, I think Bathusi Aubaas, having played in the last game, has shown that he has the quality to carry on. That’s what you get at Sundowns; every player that comes in does the same job as the other player who is injured or suspended," he stated.

Beyond the collective tactical setup, Sundowns still boast individuals capable of winning matches single-handedly. One player who continues to draw significant praise is Cassius Mailula, whose ability to find space and finish clinically makes him a constant nightmare for opposition defenders.

Ramagalela warned that the attacker is a player who requires constant monitoring from the Arrows defensive unit.

"You can tell with the boy Cassius Mailula; I think he’s one player we can say that whenever he’s on the pitch, you can’t take your eyes off him because he’s going to punish you. That’s a trend that Mamelodi Sundowns has."