Stellenbosch FC host unbeaten Mamelodi Sundowns in the Betway Premiership, hoping to climb the table after only one win.
The Maroons grabbed a crucial 1-0 victory over Marumo Gallants on Tuesday at Danie Craven Stadium, lifting them out of the relegation zone to 13th spot. That result gives them one win, one draw, and two losses from four league outings so far. They have also booked a second straight MTN8 final berth, edging Sekhukhune United 3-1 on aggregate after a 1-1 second leg draw in Polokwane last weekend.
Sundowns remain undefeated in the league following a gritty 0-0 draw with Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Wednesday. The Brazilians sit third on the table with two wins and two draws, but their MTN8 run ended in heartbreak against Orlando Pirates, who forced penalties after a late equalizer from Kamogelo Sebelebele in both legs.
In team news, Sundowns could miss defensive rock Grant Kekana for another match as he continues recovering from an injury sustained against Pirates.
Captain Themba Zwane faces a longer spell on the sidelines, expected to be out for around two months with a thigh injury. Mothobi Mvala is also on the injury list, adding to the challenges for the visitors.
For Stellenbosch, forward Lehlogonolo Mojela has made a welcome return from a long-term injury, featuring in their recent MTN8 win. However, midfielder Sanele Barns remains a doubt after being sidelined for the Sekhukhune clash.
Keep an eye on Stellenbosch’s dangerman Langelihle Phili, whose blistering pace and sharp finishing have yielded three goals in four appearances across all competitions this term. The youngster, recently picked for South Africa’s U20 FIFA World Cup squad in Chile, could exploit any gaps in Sundowns’ backline.
For the visitors, Iqraam Rayners stands out as the key influencer, having netted four times in six outings and earning a Bafana Bafana call-up for qualifiers against Lesotho and Nigeria. His clinical edge might prove decisive in breaking down a stubborn Stellies defence.
Head-to-head in the league since 2019/20 favors Sundowns heavily, with nine wins to Stellenbosch’s one and two draws. Expect a tactical tussle, but the hosts’ home advantage and momentum could make this a closer affair than the stats suggest.