31 October 2019, by: Leonard Solms

Telkom Knockout Predictions: Quarter-Final

The Soweto derby is the headline fixture in this weekend’s Telkom Knockout quarter-final action, but there are plenty of potential nail-biters in store.

Mamelodi Sundowns will be looking to avenge their 2-1 Nedbank Cup loss to Chippa United, while Maritzburg United do battle with Highlands Park and SuperSport United with Golden Arrows.

An intriguing fixture lies in store for us here as Highlands Park look to bounce back from an unfortunate defeat to Orlando Pirates in midweek.

Maritzburg United, meanwhile, are in fantastic form with four wins on the trot behind them.

Highlands Park, however, have already made the MTN8 final this season and sit fourth in the Premiership. Even at the Harry Gwala Stadium, this should be their tie.

Orlando Pirates have a fantastic recent record against Kaizer Chiefs, having won three and drawn one of the last four Soweto derbies. However, the tables appear to be turning with Amakhosi playing superb football under Ernst Middendorp.

Moses Mabhida Stadium has often been an uncomfortable venue for Kaizer Chiefs of late, but they have a score to settle and will be fired up. It will not be a straightforward task, particularly with Kearyn Baccus injured and Reeve Frosler doubtful, but Amakhosi are tipped to emerge triumphant.

I am in agreement with  Brand Ambassador Jimmy Tau and am going for a 2-1 Chiefs win.

Matsatsantsa host Abafana Bes’thende at Mbombela Stadium in the Saturday evening kick-off. It has been a mixed season for both sides to date, but they have both played exciting brands of football.

Nevertheless, SuperSport and Arrows have also both struggled at times to grind out wins.

Kaitano Tembo’s men have seen three regulation time draws in a row and another is on the cards, but the cup specialists are backed to emerge triumphant from another penalty shootout, as they did against Baroka in the last round.

Mamelodi Sundowns head into this quarter-final off the back of a 2-0 loss to Kaizer Chiefs. Combine that with memories of their Nedbank Cup defeat to Chippa United early this year and have a Masandawana side with a point to prove.

Pitso Mosimane’s men are tipped for revenge in Port Elizabeth with a comfortable 3-0 victory. They have the depth and desire to take the bull by the horns in this encounter after a lengthy drought in cup competitions.

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