Mamelodi Sundowns can make significant progress toward securing an unprecedented eighth consecutive league title as they face Chippa United tonight, starting at 19:30.
With two crucial wins over Richards Bay and Cape Town City in the past week, the Brazilians have surged to 61 points, just six shy of the mark needed to mathematically seal the title.
A win over Chippa, followed by another against Stellenbosch this weekend, would take them to 67 – matching the maximum possible tally of second-placed Orlando Pirates but all but guaranteeing glory thanks to a far superior difference.
Masandawana mentor Miguel Cardoso will have to navigate this test without midfield anchor Teboho Mokoena, who is suspended due to yellow card accumulation. However, there’s optimism surrounding the potential return of striker Peter Shalulile from a minor injury.
Despite the vast points difference between his side and Pirates, Cardoso remains grounded, urging his troops against complacency.
“The boys are really fighting for what they want so much. We are very committed with every match. The next match (against Chippa United) will be again, a very tough one,” said the Portuguese tactician.
For Chippa United, the mission is clear – arrest a worrying slide and stay in the hunt for a top-eight finish. Thabo September’s side have lost back-to-back matches 1- 0 to Stellenbosch and 2-0 to SuperSport United-and are now winless in four. They currently sit eighth, precariously level on points with Kaizer Chiefs and Marumo Gallants, but narrowly ahead on goal difference.
September acknowledged his tactical missteps in their most recent outing and called for greater execution in key moments.
“Plan A didn’t work. The moments that we got behind we lacked a bit of quality, but the players worked hard and played hard,” September said.
Chippa will be without right-back Sirgio Kammies, who begins a three-match suspension following a red card against SuperSport.
With Sundowns charging toward history and Chippa scrapping for MTN8 qualification, Wednesday’s clash promises a compelling mix of high stakes, contrasting ambitions, and tactical intrigue.