Sundowns co-coach Mngqithi 'prepared' for MTN8 semi-final

Potentially the fixture of the weekend in South African football, Mamelodi Sundowns take on Orlando Pirates at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.  

Sundowns co-coach Manqoba Mngqithi has said that his side's preparations have gone well despite such a crucial game taking place immediately after the international break.  

"I think the preparations have gone very well. One is just not too sure after a FIFA break if you don't have a match before such a critical game, there will always be question marks about the reaction after the FIFA break from the players," said Mngqithi. 

"But like I said, in terms of preparation, everything has gone very well." 

Meanwhile, opponents Pirates come into the game in good form, sitting second in the DStv Premiership, five points behind 'Downs. However, Mngqithi has studied Pirates extensively over the break and will look to avoid any surprises from his opponents and believes they won't "change much".  

"We have done our duty in looking at the opposition and the shape they've adopted. We have done our preparations and we are ready for the match on Saturday. 

"I don't think much will change from Pirates in terms of shape, it will depend how they will approach the attack, with one or two strikers," he said.  

Mngqithi was asked by reporters about defender Lyle Lakay, who left the club on loan to Cape Town City for the season.  

"Lyle Lakay, he is still our player but we released him so he can get more game time so it will be good for him. We have looked at our squad and decided that if you have a player of Lyle's age (31) and with his game time being affected, he served the club well and we are proud of his service for us.  

"We are in full support for him and pursuing his endeavours in going to Cape Town