Cape Town City coach Benni McCarthy says he is expecting a difficult challenge when they take on Mamelodi Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup quarter-final on Sunday.

The Citizens booked their place in the last eight of the competition after claiming a 1-0 win over in-form side Orlando Pirates, while Sundowns came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory over minnows EC Bees in the previous round.

McCarthy believes his sides clash against Sundowns will be their most difficult run in the competition thus far, stating City can only win silverware by beating the best.

“It hasn’t been a bad way to learn and grow but I think this one is going to be the toughest of the three. No disrespect to the other two that we’ve faced‚ they’re both quality sides. But when you play the African Champions League winners and the team that’s at the top of our league‚ it’s a difficult challenge,” McCarthy told the media.

“But it’s also nice motivation for the boys. If you want to win these trophies‚ you’ve got to play the best and beat them. Home advantage always helps. When you don’t have to travel‚ you can prepare nicely.

“We are accustomed to the weather and now winter is beginning to arrive‚ it’s the Cape Town we know. Teams from Pretoria and Joburg don’t like trips down to the Cape so hopefully, that can help us. We are well rested and now it’s back to doing what we do best – and that’s playing football.”

The match at Cape Town Stadium kicks off at 15:00.