Anticipation is mounting as Mamelodi Sundowns kick-off their 2024/25 inaugural Betway Premiership campaign with a derby on Tuesday at Loftus Versfeld.

The stage has been set for an epic showdown and Aubrey Modiba has looked ahead of what will be a mouthwatering encounter. “We know Tshwane Derbies are about bragging rights in Pretoria. So, it’s not going to be an easy one. I’ve managed to play for both sides and the derby is always that one game I always look forward to.

“It’s going to be a tough one, but I think we are ready for the task. SuperSport United have not played for a while now but that doesn’t count. Derbies are different and special. We are looking forward to the game. We will make sure that we pull out a fight and get maximum points,” he said.

The memory of Downs’ draw against Matsatsantsa at home last season still lingers, but as the two sides enter this clash in good form, Modiba hopes the narrative is different this time around.

With coach Manqoba’s side coming from the back of a win in a different competition, the defender states that the win has fuelled their desire to start the league on a high by upsetting their neighbours on their home turf.

“It was important for us to do well in the Champions League, especially because we haven’t been lucky in front of goal, so that win has boosted our morale and has given us confidence going into the next game. Starting the league with maximum points is important for us and hopefully we can do that on Tuesday,” Modiba stated.

The Postman concluded by encouraging the Yellow Nation to come out in numbers, saying: “We are urging our supporters to come in numbers so we can make them proud. It’s nice to always hear them sing and supporting us. Hopefully we can get the win and the three points for them.”

Mamelodi Sundowns will do clash against SuperSport United in the Tshwane Derby on Tuesday evening at Loftus Versfeld. Kick-off has been scheduled for 19H30.