The Betway Premiership season draws to a close this Sunday, with newly crowned champions Mamelodi Sundowns set to face Magesi FC in a bid to secure more records.
Having already claimed the title, Sundowns are now focused on making history, while Magesi are determined to solidify their place in the top flight.
Sundowns sealed their eighth consecutive Premiership title with a dominant 3-0 win over Chippa United on Wednesday.
Masandawana have been unstoppable, matching the PSL record for most wins (23) in a 34-game season and breaking their own 30-game season record set in 2015/16, all in just 27 matches.
They also became the first South African side to score 100 goals across all competitions this season, a milestone reached against Chippa.
Magesi, meanwhile, are riding a five-match winning streak, conceding just two goals during that run. Sitting 12th after 25 games on 29 points, Dikwena tsa Meetse are not safe from relegation yet, with tough fixtures against Marumo Gallants and Orlando Pirates looming. Their only prior meeting with Sundowns ended in a 2-1 defeat earlier this season.
Sundowns’ star midfielder Themba Zwane, recently back from an Achilles injury, was rested against Chippa to avoid risk on a heavy pitch. Head coach Miguel Cardoso confirmed Zwane could feature on Sunday, balancing preparations for the upcoming CAF Champions League final against Pyramids FC.
No new injuries have been reported, though recent X posts from Sundowns’ official account highlight the return of defender Grant Kekana to full training, boosting their defensive options.
Magesi have no reported injuries, with coach Owen Da Gama likely to field a similar lineup to their recent winning run. A recent X update from Magesi’s account praised their squad’s “relentless spirit,” signaling high morale heading into this clash.
Sundowns’ coach Miguel Cardoso emphasized a professional approach despite their focus on the CAF final. “We will prepare to win our next match,” Cardoso said. “Magesi have been doing well in their last games, so we need to take care of them. We want to finish the league strongly in front of our fans.”
Magesi’s Owen Da Gama, speaking after their latest win, said, “Our boys are fighting for every point. Facing Sundowns is a massive challenge, but we’re ready to give everything.”
Iqraam Rayners and Lucas Ribeiro Costa (Sundowns) are neck-and-neck in the race for the Golden Boot, each with 14 league goals. Rayners’ opener against Chippa matched Ribeiro Costa’s tally, and both will be eager to strike on Sunday to claim the top-scorer crown.
Delano Abrahams of Magesi, the 29-year-old forward has been a revelation, scoring in three of Magesi’s last five games. His versatility and clinical finishing make him a threat against Sundowns’ formidable defence.
Sundowns are poised to cap their dominant campaign with a record-breaking performance, but their split focus on the CAF final could give Magesi an opening.
The visitors’ recent form suggests they can compete, but they’ll need to neutralize Sundowns’ attacking firepower. Expect an open, attacking game as both sides chase their respective goals in this Premiership finale.