After struggling against the pace of Stellenbosch FC in the MTN8 semi-final first leg, Mamelodi Sundowns are set to have a new thorn in the flesh from a signing that replaced Iqraam Rayners.
Sundowns were uncharacteristically outplayed in most periods by Stellies, especially in the first stanza, and could not time their offside traps, as the likes of Lehlohonolo Mojela, Devon Titus and Andre de Jong impressed.
READ: Heat on Manqoba | 'Rulani's problem is greediness'
For their efforts, the Western Cape side won 1-0 courtesy of a penalty by Fawaaz Basadien and go into the second leg on Sunday at Moses Mabhida Stadium, with a lead and an away goal.
Despite top striker Rayners having moved to The Brazilians, Steve Barker's charges did not show any signs of missing him, although would have cherished his finishing, after creating plenty chances they could not convert.
However, the head coach has hinted that Ashley Cupido, signed from Cape Town Spurs as a replacement for Rayners, could be available for the second leg.
"It was key for us to try and find a replacement for Rayners and we felt Ashley fitted the bill, [he is] the type of player we believe will fit into our system really well," Barker said in the post-match press conference.
"He has also shown he can score goals, a good return of goals for a team that was struggling. So, I believe he's a goal-scorer, he has presence, he's got pace, he's got a bit of power. He knows how to score.
READ: Top agent responds to 'agenda against Chiefs' talk
"I think he will add depth and quality to our team. As you could see, it was tough to play Bradley [Lehlohonolo Mojela] throughout the match. We didn't really have any other options on the bench, but I'm trusting he [Cupido] will be available in the second leg."
Should Cupido be available, Sundowns may be forced to change their game plan, as playing another high line tactic could suit the former Spurs forward, who has a pace to burn and is a natural finisher.