“We are glad to be nearing the start of the new season,” says defender Daniel Cardoso. “We have just returned from a good training camp in Potchefstroom. The camp was great because it brought us together as a team.  Training was tough as per usual with every preseason. We used the opportunity to gel with the new players – they were warmly welcomed by the rest of the team.”

Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns will lock horns in the Shell Helix Ultra Cup match on Saturday, 21 July 2018. The match will take place at the FNB Stadium. Kick-off is at 15:00.

“The match against Sundowns is part of our preparation for the new season,” adds Cardoso. “We ended our camp by winning a four-team tournament, Maize Cup last weekend. The tournament gave us some good indication in terms of our state of readiness. It is important for us to win every match, be it a friendly or official match.”

Dubbed ‘The Battle Of 2 Cities, There Can Only Be One’, the Shell Helix Ultra Cup is in its inaugural stage and has already set tongues wagging among the supporters.

“It’s about winning mentality,” stresses Cardoso. “It is important to win matches and to work on maintaining the momentum.  Our new coach has come in and has started instilling his philosophy.”

The rivalry between Chiefs and Sundowns is growing and Cardoso says: “Playing Sundowns in any event is a tough assignment. We have a history of winning inaugural trophies and Shell Helix Ultra Cup will not be an exception. Sundowns are a good team and they have been active in CAF matches. We feel good and as true professionals, we are preparing well for the new season.”

Tickets for the match are available for sale at Computicket and Shoprite/Checkers outlets nationwide. The cost tickets starts at R70 for L3 & 5, R100 L1 and R170 L2.

Gates open at 11:00.