DStv Premiership Big Match Preview: Mamelodi Sundowns vs Orlando Pirates




Photo Cred - Soccer Laduma, Peter Shalulile battling for a ball with Thulani Hlatshwayo

This question keeps on being posed, "Who's going to stop Mamelodi Sundowns?" They're only one team that hasn't lost a league match in PSL this season.

They're in a rich vein of form that no one can match currently in the league. Masandawana are 15 points clear at the summit of the log with 40 points, the chasing pack should be demoralized.

Andile Jali has been bossing the midfield against all opponents they've faced so far. The return of center-back Rushine De Reuck and defensive midfielder Rivaldo Coetzee from injuries has strengthened the defense. 

This season's signing Grant Kekana has found a niche as De Reuck partner and seems faultless thus far.

Bafana Ba style are rarely attacked as they possess the ball more, hence their wing-backs Lyle Lakay and Thapelo Morena always add numbers offensively. 

The attacking midfielder Sphelele Mkhulise has found his form and graces the passing game with the playmaker Themba Zwane. 

Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates are gradually picking up as they haven't lost in the last seven league games.

Their attacking midfielder Fortune Makaringe has gained some confidence but still needs a complement. The return of Thembinkosi Lorch who was injured should boost him. 

Bucs' defensive midfielder Thabang Monare hasn't lived up to expectations since his arrival last season and has a huge test against Downs' solid midfield. 

Just like Monare, this season's signing Kwame Pepra has failed to deliver for the Soweto giants after not scoring in his first 11 matches as a striker.

The return of Gabadinho Mhango who was injured will give the Sea Robbers' coach Mandla Ncikazi more options upfront.


Suspensions/Injuries/Absentees:


Lebohang Maboe - Injured (Downs)

Kuliso Mudau - Injured (Downs)

Mosa Lebusa - Injured (Downs)

Neo Maema - Doubtful (Downs)

Thabiso Kutumela - Doubtful (Downs)

Peter Shalulile - Doubtful (Downs)

Richard Ofori - Injured (Pirates)

Zakhele Lepasa - Doubtful (Pirates)

Vincent Pule - Injured (Pirates)


5 previous h2h:

Pirates   L-4, D-1

Downs   W-4, D-1


Match details:

Date - 17/12/2021 (Friday)

Venue - Loftus Versveld Stadium

Kick-Off - 19:30

Buccaneers may want to continue jacking up but Sundowns won't allow a lose at home and even a draw feels like a defeat to them.

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