Mamelodi Sundowns vs. Zamalek: See the Five players to watch

Denis Onyango: Wayne Sandilands deputised ably against Enyimba with Onyango suspended, but now cleared to play once again, the Uganda stopper will surely be key if Downs are to pull off a big result. The keeper offers experience and composure and both will be important if Pitso Mosimane’s side are to cope with the inevitable pressure they will be put under by Zamalek.

Percy Tau: Mosimane has hinted that midfielder Tau will be involved against Zamalek—or is at least in consideration—and it will be fascinating to watch how the 22-year-old performs should he be given the chance to impress. Tau missed the title success of last season after being sent on loan to Witbank Spurs, but he looks set to remain with Downs this term. It’s imperative that he takes every chance to prove to the coach that he belongs with the Brazilians, and that the manager was short-sighted to send him away last term!

Anthony Laffor: Bad boy Laffor had looked certain to leave Downs during the offseason after one high-profile controversy too many, but appears to have earned an unlikely reprieve. Indeed, Mosimane clearly considers the Liberian to be so important that he has vowed not to hold any grudges after his latest misdemeanour. The 31-year-old can be a key influence for the Brazilians when called upon, and with the coach confirming that he’s in the reckoning for the trip to Egypt, he ought to do everything he can to repay the club’s faith.

Tiyani Mabunda: Bongani Zungu’s move away from Sundowns had appeared inevitable after some fine performances for club and country, but his departure has left the club with a huge gap to fill in the heart of the midfield. Mosimane has confirmed that Mabunda has his eye on replacing the 23-year-old, although it remains to be seen whether the former Black Leopards man can step into the shoes of the influential Zungu. Sugar has demonstrated character and will power before to turn around a tricky situation with Downs, but compensating for Zungu’s loss represents a considerable task.

Siyanda Zwane: Ramahlwe Mphahlele’s departure to Kaizer Chiefs represents a considerable loss for Sundowns. Not only have they been deprived of a fine right-back, but they’ve also seen a key dressing room influence and a versatile asset leave for a key rival. Mosimane has revealed that he’s in the market for a new right-sided defender, but in the meantime, expect Zwane to replace Rama as he has done in the past. Whether he can convince the coach that he can be the go-to man this term, however, is a different matter!