Mamelodi Sundowns winger Tashreeq Matthews says the Brazilians are determined to defeat Marumo Gallants when the two sides meet in the Carling Knockout Round of 16.

The fixture presents Sundowns with an opportunity to settle a score after Gallants eliminated them at the same stage of last season’s competition.

Matthews has made it clear that Sundowns are approaching the encounter with one objective: securing victory and keeping their hopes of lifting the trophy alive.

“We play to win and that is important. Fortunately, we are getting Marumo Gallants again and we want to win the game,” Matthews said, as quoted by iDiski Times.

The winger’s comments underline Sundowns’ determination to avoid another early exit from a competition in which they will be eager to challenge for silverware.

Last season’s elimination will add extra significance to the upcoming meeting, with Gallants having already demonstrated that they can frustrate the Tshwane giants in knockout football.

For Sundowns, the challenge will be to turn their ambitions into a convincing performance when the sides meet again.

The Brazilians have established themselves as one of South Africa’s leading teams, but their domestic dominance does not guarantee success in cup competitions. A single match can determine whether a club advances or sees its trophy ambitions end.

That makes Matthews’ emphasis on winning particularly relevant as Sundowns prepare for the Round of 16 encounter.

The winger is expected to be an important attacking option as the team looks to break down Gallants and create opportunities in the final third. His pace, movement and ability to take on defenders could prove valuable in a fixture where Sundowns will be eager to impose themselves.

However, Gallants will also have reasons to approach the match with confidence. Their previous success against Sundowns at this stage provides evidence that they can compete with the reigning domestic heavyweights when the stakes are high.

Sundowns will therefore need to remain disciplined defensively while making better use of their attacking opportunities.

The Carling Knockout represents another chance for the Brazilians to add silverware to their collection, and an early elimination would be a major disappointment for a club accustomed to competing for trophies.

For Matthews and his teammates, the objective is straightforward: overcome Gallants, advance to the quarter-finals and continue their pursuit of the title.

Whether Sundowns can turn last season’s disappointment into motivation will be decided on the pitch. Matthews, however, has made his intentions clear ahead of the rematch.

https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2115074633871380764