The biggest match of the South African Premiership season so far is nearly upon us as table-topping Mamelodi Sundowns welcome second-placed Orlando Pirates to Loftus Versfeld stadium on Saturday. With only six points currently separating the sides, this clash could go a long way in deciding the destination of the title.
Sundowns Aim to Maintain Dominance
Mamelodi Sundowns have won the last seven consecutive PSL titles, finishing a staggering 23 points clear of Pirates last season. However, the Buccaneers have closed the gap this campaign and will fancy their chances of ending Masandawana’s domestic dominance.
Despite their lofty position, Sundowns have struggled against Pirates in recent meetings. The Brazilians are winless in the last three encounters between the sides across all competitions:
- MTN8: Pirates 2-0 Sundowns
- Nedbank Cup: Pirates 3-1 Sundowns
- PSL: Sundowns 1-1 Pirates
Injury Concerns for Defending Champions
Sundowns have been hit by injuries to key players like Themba Zwane, Rivaldo Coetzee, and Mothobi Mvala this season. How well the league-leaders cope without some of their stars could determine the outcome on Saturday.
“It’s never easy to replace world-class talents like Themba. But we have great depth in our squad and whoever steps in will be ready to perform.”
– Manqoba Mngqithi, Mamelodi Sundowns Head Coach
Bucs Banking on Monnapule Magic
For Orlando Pirates, the availability of winger Monnapule Saleng amid transfer speculation could be crucial. The 24-year-old has been electric for the Soweto giants but rumors persist about a potential move abroad.
Bucs co-coach Mandla Ncikazi was tight-lipped on Saleng’s future at a pre-match press conference:
“Right now Monnapule is an Orlando Pirates player. He’s focused on the Sundowns game and helping the team. We don’t concern ourselves with transfer rumors.”
– Mandla Ncikazi, Orlando Pirates Co-Coach
Mabasa Spearheads Pirates Attack
With 9 goals so far, Tshegofatso Mabasa leads the scoring charts for Pirates this season. The 26-year-old striker will relish the chance to fire Bucs to a statement victory over the defending champions.
Head-to-Head History
Historically, Mamelodi Sundowns have enjoyed the upper hand over their Soweto rivals. In 30 previous PSL meetings, the head-to-head record stands at:
- Sundowns Wins: 16
- Pirates Wins: 10
- Draws: 4
However, Pirates are unbeaten in the last three encounters. The Buccaneers will hope to extend that streak come Saturday and strike a psychological blow in the title race.
Team News and Predicted Line-ups
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi must decide whether to risk rushing back injured stars Zwane and Coetzee or keep faith with the players who have deputized well in their absence. Expect a few changes from the 3-0 win over Richards Bay.
Predicted Sundowns XI (4-3-3):
Ronwen Williams; Aubrey Modiba, Malibongwe Khoza, Grant Kekana, Zuko Mdunyelwa; Marcelo Allende, Teboho Mokoena, Jayden Adams; Tashreeq Matthews, Peter Shalulile, Lucas Ribeiro Costa
Jose Riveiro is unlikely to tinker much with an Orlando Pirates side that has found a winning formula lately. The Spaniard must decide whether to start Monnapule Saleng on the wing or keep faith with Relebohile Mofokeng.
Predicted Pirates XI (4-2-3-1):
Sipho Chaine; Paseka Mako, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Thabiso Sesane, Deano van Rooyen; Thalente Mbatha, Makhehlene Makhaula; Relebohile Mofokeng, Patrick Maswanganyi, Deon Hotto; Tshegofatso Mabasa
Wrapping Up
With both clubs in fine form heading into this top-of-the-table clash, Saturday’s showdown at Loftus Versfeld could be an early title race six-pointer. Will Masandawana continue their domestic dominance or can the Buccaneers announce themselves as genuine championship contenders?
One thing is certain – with some of South African football’s biggest names on show, this Mamelodi Sundowns vs Orlando Pirates battle is not to be missed. Kick-off is at 15:30 local time (13:30 GMT).
