Polokwane City captain Puleng Marema sets sights on MTN8 glory

The veteran striker has been a key figure at Rise and Shine for more than a decade, joining the club in 2012 when they were still competing in the Motsepe Foundation Championship.

Now 35, Marema has remained loyal to Polokwane City throughout their journey to the elite level and will be hoping the MTN8 can provide the opportunity to finally add silverware to his career.

Polokwane City secured their place in the competition after finishing seventh in the Betway Premiership last season. However, their route to the semi-finals could hardly be tougher, with Mamelodi Sundowns standing between them and the last four.

The two teams will meet at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Sunday, with Marema acknowledging the challenge posed by the newly crowned CAF Champions League winners.

"I am excited that we qualified for this exciting competition. Sundowns are a good club with exceptional players and always give us problems. I hope that we do well and go through to the semis," Marema said.

The experienced forward believes simply qualifying for the MTN8 is an achievement for a club like Polokwane City, but insists they are not satisfied with making up the numbers.

"Remember, small clubs are always fighting to qualify for the Top 8 and we achieved that last season. We will go all out to win," he added.

Marema is also prepared to contribute regardless of whether he starts the match or is introduced from the bench, with his focus firmly on helping the club progress.

"Whether I start or come in from the bench, I am going to give my all to try and make this a memorable one for our supporters who will be travelling to watch us.

"I have never been lucky to win any silverware, but this is an opportunity for us to turn things around."

Eliminating Sundowns would take Polokwane City one step closer to the final and give Marema another chance to pursue the elusive trophy that has so far escaped him during his top-flight career.