Tiny Richards Bay target big Mamelodi Sundowns scalp in MTN8 quarter-finals

MTN8 debutants Richards Bay are preparing for the biggest test in their club’s short top-flight history — a quarter-final clash against the might of Mamelodi Sundowns on Sunday at 3pm.

After clinching a dramatic top-eight finish on the final day of the 2024/25 Betway Premiership season, the Natal Rich Boyz now find themselves drawn against the league’s most dominant force in the opening round of the lucrative knockout competition.

And, while the odds are firmly stacked against them, the club views this occasion as more than just a box to tick — it’s a sign of progress.

Their coaching duo, Ronnie Gabriel and Papi Zothwane, has kept the squad grounded during pre-season, knowing what awaits them.

Sundowns — eight-time consecutive league winners — are not just title favourites; they’re also looking to build on last season’s domestic dominance under head coach Miguel Cardoso, now entering his second campaign in charge.

Richards Bay, by contrast, enter the competition with zero expectations. Having spent most of last season fending off relegation before finishing eighth, they now find themselves in uncharted waters.

The quarter-final offers them the chance to measure themselves against a team packed with internationals and CAF experience.

Sundowns are expected to field a full-strength line-up, featuring star names such as Themba Zwane, Lucas Ribeiro, and Teboho Mokoena. Richards Bay will lean on their defensive discipline and structure — which helped them punch above their weight last season — to try to keep the tie competitive.

The KwaZulu-Natal outfit will also look to recent additions such as Lindokuhle Mtshali in midfield, Gabadinho Mhango’s creativity in attack, and the speed of Thulani Gumede to exploit moments on the counter.

Goalkeeper Salim Magoola remains a key figure — his shot-stopping abilities could determine whether this becomes a blowout or a contest.

The pressure lies squarely with Sundowns, who are chasing their fifth MTN8 crown and will be eager to start the season with silverware.

Cardoso’s first season brought more of the same domestically, but early exits in cup competitions left room for improvement — particularly in a tournament where Sundowns haven’t always had it their way.

Richards Bay’s rise from the lower divisions to competing in the MTN8 is remarkable. This is a team built on resilience, often operating under the radar. Their run into the top eight wasn’t spectacular, but it was consistent — enough to secure a place in this season’s curtain-raiser tournament.

As they step onto the pitch against the country’s most resource-rich club, Richards Bay know the result may not define them — but the performance might. It’s a moment of validation for their players, technical team, and supporters, all of whom have carried the club from the National First Division into the bright lights of knockout football.

Kick-off is set for Sunday, and while few will bet against Sundowns, the MTN8 has a history of upsets. Richards Bay will be hoping to add a new chapter to that legacy.