Kaizer Chiefs defender Miguel Inacio has sent a strong warning to Mamelodi Sundowns ahead of their blockbuster Betway Premiership clash at FNB Stadium on Saturday.
Amakhosi have made an impressive start to the league campaign, winning their opening two matches and building early momentum under coach Fernando Da Cruz.
Inacio, who has been a key figure in Chiefs’ defence, insists his side will not be intimidated by the reigning champions.
“We have to respect the fact that Sundowns is Sundowns, but we are also Kaizer Chiefs and we fight for our goals. We fear no one,” Inacio said.
“I think the message is clear: we fear no one, no matter if they are champions of Africa or champions of the PSL. We are going to start the game with the same ambition and fighting spirit, and win every duel.”
Chiefs will also take confidence from their recent record against Sundowns, having avoided defeat in their last three meetings across all competitions.
Kaizer Chiefs ready for Sundowns
For Inacio, Saturday’s encounter also presents an opportunity to continue his strong start to the season and potentially catch the attention of the Angola national team selectors.
The defender has been out of the national team setup for several years but admits a return to the Palancas Negras is something he would welcome.
“I won’t lie, I would like to make it back to the national team, but my focus right now is Kaizer Chiefs and achieving goals with my club,” he said during a press conference at the Chiefs Village on Thursday afternoon.
“We have a lot of games and competitions ahead of us. I never think about the national team ahead of any game. The only thing on my mind right now is Leon, Tashreeq and all the Sundowns attack.
“So, that is all that I am thinking about, which is the next game for us and obviously remaining fit, training well and being prepared to be one of the options for coach Da Cruz against Sundowns.”
When do Kaizer Chiefs play Sundowns?
Kaizer Chiefs host Mamelodi Sundowns at FNB Stadium on Saturday, 15 August, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00.
The highly anticipated encounter will be televised live on SABC 1 and SuperSport 2.