“Every team we play against, bring their all to the match,” comments Kaizer Chiefs speedy midfielder Mandla Masango ahead of hosting their football nemesis Ajax Cape Town at the FNB Stadium on Wednesday evening (kick-off at 19:30).

Masango, an integral part of the Bafana Bafana squad, has inspiring thoughts about the match: “Obviously it is not going to be easy. We are mentally prepared for the Ajax clash.”

With most of the fans looking ahead to the traditional South African showpiece on Saturday, Masango warns: “Games before the Soweto Derby are a test of mental strength. We have to be mentally ready. There is a lot at stake in the Ajax match.”

Amakhosi are topping the log, but the winger would like the supporters to realise the importance of backing their team by attending all home matches in big numbers.

“Ajax won their last match against Chippa United (2-0) and we lost our last league game,” adds Masango. “It is important for us to be professional and tackle each match with discipline and hunger. The same applies for the supporters, they must boost us by pitching up at the games.”

“Our last game in the league belongs in the past tense,” concludes Masango. “We are focusing on the future. We came out of a competitive win in Botswana and that is a morale booster going into the Ajax fixture. Yes, they won their last match, it’s always good to come up against a winning team.”

The tickets for the much anticipated fixture are sold at Computicket and Shoprite/Checkers outlets nationwide. Ticket costs R40 for adults and R10 for children U12.