Kaizer Chiefs’ Glody Lilepo is chellenged by Stellebosch’s Omega Mdaka duing their trying Betway Premiership encounter at Athlone Stadium on Friday. Photo: Ayanda Ndamane Independent Newspapers
Image: Ayanda Ndamane
With the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals just around the corner, the tension is mounting, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
It's do or die for the big guns, and while the teams have been preparing, there are a few players who are primed to take the spotlight.
Football Writer Smiso Msomi takes a look at five players who could light up the quarter-finals this weekend :
Lucas Ribeiro (Mamelodi Sundowns)
When you talk about match-winners, Lucas Ribeiro is a name that pops up immediately.
The Brazilian-born forward has been in scintillating form and showcased his talents against Orlando Pirates as well as Kaizer Chiefs recently.
The quarter-finals is another stage set for him to further his reputation, having already recorded 27 goal involvements in his 33 appearances this season.
Sundowns are the team to beat, and Ribeiro has the flair, the finishing, and the footballing intelligence to cause havoc for any defence.
Glody Lilepo (Kaizer Chiefs)
Amakhosi have struggled to find consistency, but there’s a sense that their new Congolese recruit could be the spark they’ve been missing.
The attacking midfielder is a blend of creative vision and tireless work ethic—qualities that could help Chiefs turn the tide in what promises to be a highly competitive quarter-final against Stellenbosch
Lilepo is not afraid to make things happen and so says the four goal involvements he has in his six matches at the clun, and his ability to dictate the tempo of the game could be the key to unlocking his team’s potential.
Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates)
20 year old Mofokeng has been one of the standout performers for the Buccaneers in the past two seasons, and following a brief slump, the quarter-finals could be the stage where he truly steps up to the plate.
The young midfielder has impressed with his energy, vision, and versatility, and he’s proven time and time again that he’s capable of influencing games at the highest level.
As Pirates look to defend their Nedbank title, Mofokeng will be one to watch, especially with his ability to pick a pass and make decisive contributions in the final third.
Devin Titus (Stellenbosch)
Stellenbosch have quietly established themselves as one of the more dangerous sides in the PSL, and much of that is down to the presence of Devin Titus.
The winger is quick, clinical, and not afraid to take on defenders. In a cup competition where anything can happen, Titus has the ability to turn a game on its head in an instant.
The Bafana international's four goal contributions in his last six matches will give him a huge dose of confidence going into this tie against Chiefs.
Joslin Kamatuka (Durban City)
Don’t sleep on Joslin Kamatuka. The forward has been a revelation for Durban City in the second division, showcasing his skill, pace, and lethal finishing ability.
He has all the tools to trouble even the most solid defences, and his 12 goals in all competitions this season say so. And in a knockout tournament like the Nedbank Cup, you need players who thrive under pressure.