AmaZulu defender Keegan Allan says that playing against Mamelodi Sundowns is always a huge test, as their squad is filled with high-quality players with equally high standards—a challenge he cherishes.
Allan has a history with the Brazilians, having left their DStv Diski Challenge side after senior team opportunities were limited.
He then established his career playing for the University of Pretoria, Moroka Swallows, and SuperSport United before joining AmaZulu at the start of this season from Richards Bay, a club he helped finish in the top eight last term for the first time.
After a loss to Stellenbosch in the MTN8 quarterfinals last weekend, AmaZulu started their Betway Premiership campaign on a winning note by beating newly promoted Orbit College on Saturday.
In contrast, Sundowns, who have won the league eight times on the trot, drew with Chippa United, making this upcoming fixture a critical one for them to secure their first win of the season.
Allan insists that he and his teammates are ready for the star-studded Sundowns lineup they will face at Loftus Stadium on Tuesday at 19:30.
“If you look at their squad, it is filled with national team players,” Allan said.
“They have the highest standards of players the country has to offer, and the proof has been in their performances and results through the years. You can definitely see what they offer, but we know our strengths and our qualities. It’s just about approaching it with the best possible attitude and mindset.”
The adjustment to his new team has been seamless for Allan. In his first two matches with AmaZulu, he has already scored, including the opening goal in the MTN8 quarterfinal against Stellenbosch—a game they ultimately lost 3-2.
On settling in with the club, Allan added, “I have been wonderfully welcomed in by all the staff and the players. I’m loving being here. It is a great privilege and long may it continue.”