Former Mamelodi Sundowns striker Katlego Mashego gives Royal AM no chance against 2023/24 DStv Premiership champions Mamelodi Sundowns at Harry Gwala Stadium on Tuesday.
Kick-off is at 19:30.
Royal AM are languishing in 14th position on the log table and not yet safe from being dragged into the promotion/relegation play-offs.
Only two points separate them and fellow KwaZulu-Natal outfit Richards Bay FC, who are sitting second from bottom.
READ | My First Pay Cheque: Andries Sebola
"It's a difficult one for Royal AM because even though Sundowns have already won the league, they are still chasing something that has never been done before in South Africa, they want to be the 'Invincibles' by finishing a season without having lost a league game," Mashego tells KickOff.
"Sundowns played Royal AM the past week and they won 1-0. Knowing Sundowns, they will want to correct whatever they feel they didn't do right in that game. I just foresee trouble for Royal AM, unless they come up with something different to what they gave in the previous game,' adds the man nicknamed 'Mahoota'.
He adds: "They have to realise that where they are, they can't afford to lose any of their remaining games. Sundowns are on a different level. I just wish Royal AM had what it takes to fight until the end. I think their fate also depends on Richards Bay.
"If Richards Bay put the same effort and commitment that they put against Orlando Pirates, they stand a better chance of overcoming Royal AM."
The Brazilians have four league games left to play and also still have a date with old rivals Bucs in the Nedbank Cup final in June.
Mashego, who also turned out for Pirates during his playing days, believes even though Rulani Mokwena's charges have already won the league, they should continue fielding their best players and not try to avoid bookings and injuries.
"If you have your strongest XI players fit, then let them play. You can't save them for the Nedbank Cup final. You can't rest players for only one game, it's too late for that.
READ: 'Rantie could have been better than Benni'
"You need to keep your players on form and match-fit for the final. You need to keep the momentum.
"So, coach Rulani will need to play his best players all the time, that's my opinion."
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
Click HERE to register!