The Betway Premiership resumes with a blockbuster clash as league leaders
Mamelodi Sundowns host arch-rivals Orlando Pirates at Loftus Versfeld
Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The two giants come into this fixture with contrasting fortunes in
continental competition. Sundowns are riding high after a 2-0 victory over
Remo Stars secured their place in the CAF Champions League group stages.
Pirates, meanwhile, are recovering from heartbreak, having been eliminated
from the same competition on penalties despite a valiant 3-0 win in
regulation time that leveled their aggregate score.
The league table adds another layer of intrigue to this already fierce
rivalry. Sundowns sit at the summit, three points clear of Pirates, who
slipped to fourth place after Kaizer Chiefs’ victory on Friday. This match
presents a crucial opportunity for the Buccaneers to close the gap and for
the Brazilians to solidify their lead.
History between these two sides is never far from mind. They have already
met this season in the MTN8 semi-finals, where Pirates emerged victorious
in a dramatic penalty shootout, setting the stage for a tense and highly
anticipated league encounter.
Confirmed Lineups:
Mamelodi Sundowns: Williams; Mudau, Kekana, Cupido, Modiba; Aubaas,
Matthews; Allende, Santos, Sales; Shalulile.
Subs: Onyango, Lebusa, Mdunyelwa, Basadien, Mkhulise, Adams, Ntsabeleng,
Maseko, Rayners.
Orlando Pirates: Chaine; Seema, Mbokazi, Lebitso, Hotto; Nduli, Nemtajela,
Dansin; Appollis, Moremi, Makgopa.
Subs: Buthelezi, Sibisi, Ndaba, Van Rooyen, Mbatha, Maswanganyi, Mbule,
Kwayiba, Mbuthuma.
