Hoffman: The pressure is on Mamelodi Sundowns

Vasco da Gama goalkeeper Steven Hoffman told CapeTownFootball in an exclusive interview that he yearns for an all Cape Nedbank Cup finale

EXCLUSIVE

National First Division outfit Vasco da Gama gear up for their biggest match of the season, when they travel to the Lucas Moripe Stadium to face Mamelodi Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup semi-final.

Goalkeeper Steven Hoffman admitted that there are nerves in the camp. However, his side is focused and optimistic of going all the way to claim the silverware.

“Our guys have it. We’ve come against a team that beat Kaizer Chiefs in this tournament and we beat them. It’s another game and we have to come to the party,” the 21-year-old shot-stopper told CapeTownFootball.

“Football is a funny game, we are the underdogs so the pressure should be on Sundowns. With that said, there’s always going to be nerves before a football game. If you nervous, then you ready,” he added.

With the AmaKhosi having already claimed the PSL domestic league title, the Brazilians will undoubtedly field their strongest squad as this is the only trophy left to play for. Meanwhile, the Parow-side occupy 10th position on the NFD table, and looks to be out of the running for promotion.

“We taking each game as it comes, we don’t focus on the next game. We always do our best in each and every game. That’s true professionalism, but this is a massive game,” the former Bidvest Wits goalkeeper told CapeTownFootball.

“We have a chance for silverware here and we going to grab the opportunity with both hands,” he added.

Pitso Mosimane’s side have only won one of their last five matches in all competitions. This could possibly translate to fatigue as the season comes to a close, yet, Hoffman believes the Sundowns could show up with hunger on the day.

“You only as good as your next game, anything can happen. Football is about skill and luck. We both have skill, but the luck can be on anyone’s side on the day,” he said.

“It’s about hunger and who wants it more, Sundowns will want it just as bad as us, but for different reasons.

“Every match means the most to me. I’ve never played in a semi-final in topflight football before. I was in the final of the Nedbank and Telkom with Bidvest Wits but never played.

“It’s a nice feeling knowing I contributed and playing for the badge. I will do my best to help the team and do my best to win the game.

“An all Cape final will be a dream for South African football and to show SA that Cape Town has talent,” he concluded.