FIFA CWC: Kekana says Mamelodi Sundowns opener is a do or die game

Photo Credit - Mamelodi Sundowns FC.

Former Mamelodi Sundowns captain Hlompho Kekana has explained why the team’s FIFA Club World Cup opener is ‘a do or die’ match.

The South African giants are set to make their debut at the world competition with a Group F clash against Ulsan HD in the United States on Tuesday.

Looking forward to the game, the African club’s legend emphasized why they need a winning start at the Club World Cup. The former Bafana Bafana midfielder said this during The Pitchside Podcast with former teammates Tiyani Mabunda and Teko Modise.

The trio was previewing Sundowns’ tournament opener against South Korea opponents.

Kekana said any result other than a win would make life difficult for Sundowns, hence the need for a winning start.

“It is a do or die match because if we don’t win this match, you know how difficult it may be for us,” he said, “But we can make it easier by making sure we win the first match and that would put us in a good position.”

Taking his turn, Modise stressed the importance of Miguel Cardoso’s side playing with freedom and enjoying the match if they are to emerge successful and avoid unnecessary pressure.

The two teams meet at the Inter & Co Stadium, with both making their debuts. Sundowns will also face Borussia Dortmund and Fluminense FC in the group’s matches.