Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi's tactical flexibility will be challenged against Mamelodi Sundowns, with suggestions that the Soweto giants need a defensive game plan on Saturday.
Sundowns have already embarrassed Chiefs 4-0 in the Carling Knockout this season and also hammered title rivals Orlando Pirates 4-1 recently.
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The striking trio of Iqraam Rayners, Lucas Ribeiro Costa and Peter Shalulile has already scored 39 goals between them this season.
Any opposition facing such a fearful attack would not want to play an open game against The Tshwane giants, as some Chiefs legends feel it would not be a bad thing for Nabi to respect Sundowns and employ defensive or counter-attack tactics.
"It is acceptable (to sit back against Sundowns), but we're not saying they're gonna park the bus and just defend, defend, defend. That's why I'm saying you have to box cleverly, top boxers know to box cleverly," Tsepo Masilela said on SoccerBeat YouTube Channel.
"Dropping deep does not mean you're gonna sit back the whole game, kick the ball forward and wait for Sundowns. He can drop deep and come out in a counter. You can still drop deep and play out from those positions."
With The Brazilians having a star-studded midfield comprising the likes of Teboho Mokoena, Marcelo Allende, and Jayden Adams, Masilela went on to suggest how Chiefs approach the game in midfield is where it could be lost or won.
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"But in the middle, they will have to decide are they going pound for pound or they are giving possession to Sundowns, knowing we can catch them on a break? You look at Sundowns midfield, they are all ball-playing midfielders.
"With Chiefs, you have 'Ox' (Sibongiseni Mthethwa), because no doubt Thabo Cele can play, but in tough games when you're alone (as a ball-playing midfielder) and get pressed, that's where it can get risky," he added.
Samkelo Zwane being pressed and losing the ball cheaply on the edge of the box, which led to Njabulo Blom conceding a penalty, was a turning point in the game where Sundowns thrashed Chiefs 4-0, with the mistake costing the side an early goal after the penalty was converted by Rayners.