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Dumisani Koyana

Predicting Mamelodi Sundowns' XI to face Mpheni Home Defenders in the Nedbank Cup last 16 – Will Cardoso rest his regulars against the amateur side?

After suffering their second league defeat, Masandawana will look to bounce back as they face a SAFA League side in a cup knockout clash.

The 52-year-old Portuguese mentor has lost only two games since taking over in December 2025, with his most recent defeat coming at the hands of TS Galaxy in a league encounter.

Now, he faces his second amateur side in the Nedbank Cup after previously dispatching Sibanye Gold Stars 4-2 in the last round.

What was alarming in that match was that the Free State outfit managed to score twice, exposing some defensive lapses in Sundowns' backline.

This time, they welcome Mpheni Home Defenders to Lucas Moripe Stadium, aiming to make a strong statement following their league setback.

The Brazilians will be determined to showcase why they remain the dominant force in South African football.

Meanwhile, the Limpopo-based side faces a daunting challenge as they look to overcome Masandawana.

Mpheni Home Defenders earned their place in this clash by defeating Hungry Lions, but they will need to produce something special to trouble the reigning league champions.

Here, GOAL takes a look at how Cardoso will line up his squad to battle for a place in the last eight of the Nedbank Cup

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  • Denis Onyango, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

    GOALKEEPER: Denis Onyango

    The Ugandan will do the job and also get some game time. Ronwen Williams has been a key figure, but with the opposition not posing a major attacking threat, the Ugandan could step in and get valuable game time.

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  • Keagan Johannes, Mamelodi Sundowns

    RIGHT-BACK: Kegan Johannes

    Has had some cameo appearances since returning from injury. He started the last Nedbank Cup game and will look to add more minutes.

  • Asekho Tiwani, Mamelodi Sundowns, September 2024Backpagepix

    LEFT-BACK: Asekho Tiwani

    Competing with Aubrey Modiba for a place in the team, the South Africa U-20 captain will hope to make an impression.

  • Malibongwe Khoza, Mamelodi Sundowns, November 2024Backpagepix

    CENTRE-BACK: Malibongwe Khoza

    The 20-year-old has lost his place in recent games, but against an amateur side, this could be a chance for him to prove himself.

  • Lucas Suarez, Mamelodi Sundowns, February 2025Backpagepix

    CENTRE-BACK: Lucas Suarez

    Still adapting to the league, this match will provide him with much-needed game time to showcase his abilities.

  • Bathusi Aubaas, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

    CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Bathusi Aubaas

    Recently returned from suspension, and this game offers a chance to regain stability in the squad.

  • Sphelele Mkhulise, Mamelodi Sundowns vs Royal AM, October 2024Backpagepix

    CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Sphelele Mkhulise

    Yet to establish himself under Cardoso, the midfielder will be eager to use this opportunity to make an impression.

  • Neo Maema, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

    ATTACKING MIDFIELDER: Ntando Nkosi

    Has not played a lot this season, but the coach sees him as a prospect. A match against Mpheni Home Defenders could be his chance to gain his place in the eleven.

  • Kutlwano Letlhaku, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

    RIGHT ATTACKER: Kutlwano Letlhaku

    Competing with Lucas Ribeiro for a spot in the lineup, this game against a lower-tier opponent is an opportunity to showcase his talent.

  • Kobamelo Kodisang, Mamelodi Sundowns, September 2024Backpagepix

    LEFT ATTACKER: Kabomelo Kodisang

    Scored in the previous round against Sibanye and will be looking to continue his cup form.

  • Iqraam Rayners, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

    CENTRE-FORWARD:Iqraam Rayners

    Has struggled to score in the last five games and will see this match as a chance to regain confidence in front of goal.