Mamelodi Sundowns are so good in the PSL that big matches no longer mean much in the DSTV Premiership. Nevertheless, we’ll be looking to see if Orlando Pirates can end Masandawana’s unbeaten run in the league this Saturday (17th February, 2024).
Sundowns Probable XI: Onyango; Maboe, Coetzee, Boutouil, Lebusa; Allende, Mkhulise, Mbule; Sirino; Ribeiro, Shalulile (4-3-1-2).
Orlando Pirates Probable XI: Chaine; Makaringe, Xoki, Ndah, Hotto; Timm, Ndlondlo; Maswanganyi, Kimvulidi, Pule; Lepasa (4-2-3-1).
What is at Stake?
The only claim to fame for that match is the fact that Orlando Pirates have a good chance to end Sundowns’ unbeaten run in the league. Both sides will be without their top players after South Africa’s impressive AFCON run and this will “hurt” the home team more. So can Orlando Pirates beat Sundowns B team?
Rhulani Mokwena is not as handicapped as it looks. His second team would still win the DSTV Premiership – let’s not get into the fact that they added the likes of Lorch to their squad. I guess it’s a testament to their depth, quality and ambition as a club. But you can’t help and imagine that any team will lose a little bit of something if the are without Williams, Mudau, Modiba, Mokoena and Zwane.
This is Orlando Pirates’ best chance to hurt Sundowns. They have not scored against their opponents since 2022 and have lost 4 of the 5 meetings since. The saving grace was this season’s MTN8 Cup final penalty shootout win. The key questions for Jose Riveiro is whether Pule will fill the shoes of Lorch and whether they can shut the leaking defence. Pirates conceded six goals in their last two PSL matches. This is the best test they could ask for.
Prediction
Sundowns 3-1 Orlando Pirates
Sundowns may field a “B team” but it is still a high quality side and the rest they’ve enjoyed during AFCON will boost them. They can also call on their new signings off the bench. Expect a solid win from the home team.
CAF Observer 