Posted in News, Team News on Oct 20, 2018.
Leopards arrive at FNB Stadium on Sunday afternoon to face Kaizer Chiefs in a Telkom Knockout Last 16 fixture. Kick-off is at 15:30.
“We were without six players during the FIFA break,” comments Solinas, referring to Itumeleng Khune, Ramahlwe Mphahlele, Virgil Vries, Godfrey Walusimbi, Teenage Hadebe and Khama Billiat who were on international duty. “We had though a good practice match in Bloemfontein (Macufe Cup) last week and that helped to keep the guys sharp.”
“I have enough information about Leopards,” acknowledges Solinas. “They are a good team with a fighting spirit that plays with immense enthusiasm. They want to show that they belong to the big league. We will have to counter that with our flair and dominance.”
Solinas lamented the absence of Lebogang Manyama due to an injury sustained during a car accident earlier in the week. “We have a few players out due to injuries,” the Italian adds, “but that also means that there will be an opportunity for other players to come in and do well.”
Chiefs’ medical room is quite full at present with Leonardo Castro also still out with an ankle injury. “Leo will start full training on Monday and will hopefully be ready for the next match,” confirms Solinas.
Dax Andrianarimanana, meanwhile, is recovering from a calf strain and is ruled out of the Leopards match.
Wiseman Meyiwa is out of this one with a niggling knee problem picked up during last week’s match with Chiefs’ reserve side, while Khama Billiat will undergo a late fitness test.
Coach Solinas furthermore highlighted that the Telkom Knockout presents Amakhosi with a chance to end the three-year trophy-less spell.
Having celebrated his 74th birthday on Tuesday, a win will be a perfect birthday gift for Chairman Kaizer Motaung.
Tickets for the Telkom Knockout Last 16 encounter between Chiefs and Leopards can be bought at R40 per person at TicketPro outlets countrywide – CNA, Spar, Edgars and Jet.
Parking is free.