Orlando Pirates really need three points against FC Platinum as any slip ups may result in them kissing their title hopes goodbye. Elsewhere, Mamelodi Sundowns, who are tied on seven points with top-placed Wydad Casablanca, seek revenge against Lobi Stars, who beat them in Nigeria. Let’s have a look and see how these two clashes involving South African teams are likely to pan out.
Friday 8 March
Orlando Pirates 7/20
Draw 38/10
FC Platinum 7/1
(21:00)
After enduring a turbulent period, Orlando Pirates seem to have turned the corner in the domestic league as they have now recorded two consecutive wins ahead of their league match against Bloemfontein Celtic on Tuesday night. The Buccaneers seem to have somewhat revived their hopes of fighting for the league title as they now occupy second place albeit having played a game more than top-placed Sundowns.
In the Champions League, Pirates currently occupy third place and they need to win both remaining games to advance to the quarter-finals without needing favours from anyone.
FC Platinum managed to hold the Buccaneers to a goalless draw in the reverse fixture, but ever since then, they’ve become punching bags of the tournament. That was the only point they collected as they followed that up by losing their next three games. Pirates should triumph at Orlando Stadium.
Standings provided by Sofascore LiveScore
Mamelodi Sundowns 4/10
Draw 28/10
Lobi Stars 7/1
(21:00)
As I’ve already mentioned, Sundowns are tied on seven points with top-placed Casablanca and they need nothing short of a victory here to go to the return leg against table toppers with little or no pressure. The Brazilians currently top their domestic table despite having a game in hand which shows how much quality they possess.
Lobi Stars managed to produce a dramatic comeback to beat Sundowns 2-1 in Nigeria. Ever since then, they have lost two and drawn one of their next three games in this tournament.
If they manage to beat Sundowns, they’ll have an outside chance of advancing to the quarter-finals. Lobi Stars are only good at home and they will come unstuck in South Africa – back the hosts here.
Standings provided by Sofascore LiveScore
DOUBLE @ 9/10
Pirates Win 7/20
Sundowns Win 4/10
Written by Benedict Ngwenya