Mamelodi Sundowns, the reigning Betway Premiership champions, are set to face a stern test against Cape Town City at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
The visitors have fond memories of the Pretoria based stadium, having ended Sundown’s 29-game unbeaten league run.
Manqoba’s Masandawana
Mamelodi Sundowns, the reigning Betway Premiership champions, are facing a pivotal moment in their season after suffering their first defeat in the Betway Premiership. Indeed, Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Manqoba Mngqithi will be tempted to bring in some fresh faces as he looks to make amends.
The unexpected loss to Polokwane City has sent shockwaves through the club and its loyal fanbase, as the Brazilians were riding a seven-match winning streak (across all competitions).
While Mngqithi has opted for changes in the past, first team regulars such as Ronwen Williams, Mosa Lebusa, Rivaldo Coetzee, Marcelo Allende and Lucas Ribeiro have been key for Sundowns this season. Furthermore, the infamous benching of Teboho Mokoena and Khuliso Mudau may be a thing of the past, as Downs look to minimize the gap at the top of the log.
The defending champions have relinquished pole position in the Betway Premiership and are chasing current log leaders Orlando Pirates, who are enjoying a perfect league record.
Mngqithi, in his first season as sole head coach, is under immense pressure to deliver another league trophy and reclaim the top spot in the Premiership.
Player Spotlight
After a less than impressive start to the season, Cape Town City appear to have found form under Erik Tinkler. The Western Cape outfit are undefeated across their previous three appearances, across all competitions and have a striker eager to make an impact.
Twenty-two-year-old Namibian forward, Prins Menelik Tjiueza, has been a revelation in recent weeks, netting two goals in his last two starts in the Betway Premiership. The promising youngster will be looking to extend his scoring streak when City face Mamelodi Sundowns. This encounter will be a particularly intriguing clash for Tjiueza, as he is set to go head-to-head with his fellow countryman and Sundowns’ star striker, Peter Shalulile.
How to watch
The match is scheduled to kick-off at 19:30 on Wednesday, 30 October and will be carried live on the public broadcaster’s radio stations for commentary. The match will be broadcast live on SuperSport channel 208 and can also be streamed on Showmax.
Loftus Versfeld Stadium
The 51 000 seater stadium will host the clash between Mamelodi Sundowns and Cape Town City.
The venue has been something of a fortress for Sundowns, who dominated the South African topflight last season, winning 13 of their 15 league matches played here.
Shared with the Blue Bulls rugby team, Loftus has been the stage for iconic sporting moments, including the 2023 African Football League final, multiple Currie Cup finals, and the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup.
Betting odds (supplied by Hollywoodbets)
To win (90 min)
Mamelodi Sundowns 5/10 | Draw 28/10 | Cape Town City 56/10
With an ace up their sleeve – back the Citizens to get something from this clash. We tip Cape Town City on the double chance and BTTS (yes) at 36/10.