After a disappointing show in the CAF Champions League, Masandawana now focus on a domestic tournament. On paper, it is easy to predict a win for the Pretoria giants, but upsets always have a way of writing themselves in such encounters. This is a cup that has eluded the Premier Soccer League giants for some time now, and Downs would be keen to end the poor run that has stretched for three seasons.

When the two teams meet in Rwanda, there will be two critical factors to play for: three points and the top position of the group. Both the Sudanese giants and Masandawana have five points, and a winner of the encounter will massively boost their chances of reaching the knockout phase.

With a demanding schedule facing the Pretoria-based side, Masandawana coach Miguel Cardoso has had the opportunity to dig deep into his squad—an approach that saw a Bafana Bafana centre-back make his first appearance for the Brazilians in their mid-week clash against Sekhukhune United.

Masandawana are set to face one of their toughest challenges so far in the competition, as they are about to tackle an unbeaten opponent. The Pretoria giants resumed their campaign this year with a convincing win over Orbit College in the Premier Soccer League, and now the focus is on the continental campaign. The PSL heavyweights know they must make use of home advantage and open the gap in Group C, thus boosting their chance of reaching the knockout stage.

The Brazilians are back to continue with their bid to be crowned African champions for the first time since 2016 and they welcome their Sudanese opponents to Loftus Versfeld on Friday. Important for Masandawana is maintaining their Group C lead as they host a team they are tied on four points with, as goal difference separates the two sides.