The Brazilians are eight-time successive league champions but are facing a battle retain their title, in second place on the top-flight standings.

Under Miguel Cardoso, the Tshwane club have failed to reach the highs of previous seasons where they cruised to the Premiership title.

This season they find themselves training Orlando Pirates but clawed their way back into league contentions with a 2-1 win over the Buccaneers in a top-of-the-table clash at the weekend.

Downs are now on 35 points in second place, three adrift of Bucs, and with a game in hand.

While Cardoso's side are next in league action away to AmaZulu, they first face TS Galaxy in a Nedbank Cup last 16 tie on Saturday.

Speaking ahead of the tie, the Brazilians boss explained that they are determined to end three seasons of hurt by lifting the coveted cup trophy but expects a tough test against a strong Rockets side.

He said on IOL: "Galaxy is a team that has a good technical staff, which I respect.

"We need to be strong and resilient and know how to approach the game. Let's hope the pitch is in good condition.

"Both teams know how to play and have a positive approach to the game, which is what everybody wants and what benefits the competition."

Apart from their league and cup campaign, Sundowns are also competing in the CAF Champions League.

"I have made a note of the matches we have to play," Cardoso added as he considered the implications of fighting on three fronts.

"From 14 February until 22 March, we have 12 matches. You can only take it one match at a time.

"With all due respect, all the competitions are at the same level. The league and the Champions League are at their own levels, and then there is the Nedbank Cup.

“We just need to see what we have on the table and manage the players individually.”

Innocent Maela backs Orlando Pirates' readiness to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns for the title