Rayners could lead Sundowns’ charge for long-awaited Caf glory

MAMELODI Sundowns will begin their MTN8 journey with a home fixture against Richards Bay FC at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday evening (6pm kickoff), as they look to end a surprisingly long wait for domestic cup success.

- OBAKENG MELETSE

While the Tshwane giants have continued to assert themselves as kings of the Betway Premiership — securing a seventh successive league title — they've found cup competitions less forgiving in recent seasons.

Their hunger to conquer African football has grown, but at home, they've had to settle for near misses. That's why lifting the MTN$8 is expected to feature high on their to-do list this season.

Their last domestic triumph came in this very competition in 2021/22, and by their high standards, that feels like a drought. The Brazilians bowed out in disappointing fashion in last year’s MTN8, falling to Stellenbosch FC in both legs of the semifinal by a 1-0 scoreline.