New Moroka Swallows coach Julio Cesar Leal will face his first big test as Swallows coach when the 'Birds' host Ajax Cape Town in the quarter-finals of MTN 8 at Rustenburg's Olympia Park on Saturday (kick-off 3pm).

Leal, who impressed when he guided struggling AmaZulu to safety two seasons back, took over from Ian Gorowa, who left teh club at the end of last season.

Leal, the brother of Bafana Bafana assistant coach Jairo Leal joined the Birds in the pre-season and according to club general manager Sipho Xulu he is working wonders.

"Leal has made the world of difference to the squad. The players are buzzing and cannot wait until the season gets underway on Saturday," Xulu told SAPA.

Xulu said that with R8-million up for grabs for the new top eight winners it was crucial to get past the first round (quarter-finals).

"Most teams will be rusty during the first game. I realise that Ajax have sold a lot of their top players, than means that the gap between us has narrowed and in Rustenburg I fancy our chances of winning and a place in the semi-finals," added Xulu.

Ajax sold strikers Nathan Paulse, Russell Mwafuliwa to Swedish clubs, defender Dominic Isaacs has joined Chiefs, Bafana right back Bryce Moon has joined Greek giants Panathinaikos while Cameroon midfielder Eyong Enoh is reportedly trying his luck at Portsmouth.

The 'Birds' have also made signings in the pre-season. They have signed five Brazilians as well as former South African under-23 striker Ryan Botha who can play on the wing and midfielder Morgan Chivambu from Winners Park.

The have also signed former Kaizer Chiefs defenmder Fabian McCarthy and many of these new players are set to make their 'Birds' debuts against the 'Urban Warriors'.