Mamelodi Sundowns hope to register their second consecutive win under their new coach, Argentinean Angel Cappa, against Santos at Loftus Stadium in Pretoria on Wednesday night.
Sundowns walloped Ajax Cape Town 4-0 at the same venue last Saturday night, which was a relief for Cappa after losing his first match 2-1 to Supersport United two weeks ago.
Sundowns marketing and communications manager Alex Shakoane said his club’s win over Ajax has instilled high hopes in the camp.
”We are excited to face Santos after embarrassing our neighbours Supersport 2-0 last Thursday. We’re going to punish Santos on behalf of Supersport.
”There is no way we will allow them to beat two Tshwane clubs in less than a week,” said Shakoane, whose club signed former Bafana Bafana defender David Kannemeyer this week.
Kannemeyer joined Sundowns after his contract with reigning Premiership kings Kaizer Chiefs expired in November.
He is unlikely to feature in the game against Santos as he has not played competitive football for almost four months.
”David has already started training with the team on Monday. We are excited to have signed a top defender of his calibre,” said Shakoane.
Santos, also known as the People’s Team in local football circles, have played three games since former professional player Mark Byrne was appointed head coach.
They suffered two defeats — losing 1-0 to Chiefs and 2-0 against Silver Stars. However, they restored their pride with a well-deserved win over Supersport during the third match.
Byrne is the former head of Italian side Udinese’s development programme. He has played for various clubs, including Hellenic, in the professional ranks. — Sapa