Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rhulani Mokwena has admitted they will face a stiff challenge when they take on Moroka Swallows in the quarter-finals of the MTN8 at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday.

The fixture against the Dube Birds holds immense significance considering they are being handled by coach Steve Komphela who spent the last three years with the Tshwane giants and according to Mokwena, that will play a crucial factor in the clash.

“We are facing a coach whom we know very well and who is in charge of a team that is very tough to beat. They are a strong side with good players and we are ready to set aside any obstacles to give our best. Football ultimately belongs to the players because they are the ones on the pitch. We have to do the right things at the right time to succeed against our opponents,” said Mokwena.

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He added: “The team deserves significant credit for the effort they have displayed thus far. I am truly excited by the way several players have elevated their game and how seamlessly the new signings have become part of the team. We expect that these players continue to work as a unit and it can only get better from here. We have to keep striving to improve our performances and the results.”

Apart from facing Coach Komphela on Saturday, Sundowns will also have the opportunity to play against their former midfielder Andile Jali, who spent five trophy-laden years at Chloorkop. Sundowns have clinched the MTN8 competition four times, while Swallows, have won it three times, with their most recent victory in 2012.