Mamelodi Sundowns are set to welcome Kaizer Chiefs to a sold out Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium this Saturday, March 1st, for a crucial Betway Premiership fixture at 3:30 PM.
In anticipation of this eagerly awaited showdown, Afrik-Foot examines five key duels that could decide the outcome.
1 – Teboho Mokoena vs Yusuf Maart
This midfield battle pits the combative Teboho Mokoena against the equally tenacious Yusuf Maart. Their paths are likely to cross frequently, particularly as Maart operates in a central attacking role (number 8), while Mokoena often drops deep as a defensive midfielder (number 6), becoming a significant presence when Sundowns are out of possession.
Mokoena appears to be rediscovering his peak form after a somewhat subdued start to the season, especially during the early stages of the season under former coach Manqoba Mngqithi.
Meanwhile, Maart has experienced periods of reduced game time, occasionally starting matches from the bench. However, he has seemingly re-established himself in the starting eleven and will be eager to make his mark in this crucial encounter.
2 – Peter Shalulile vs Inacio Miguel
The Tshwane giants’ prolific striker Peter Shalulile, who overcame a slow start to the campaign to rediscover his scoring touch, will spearhead the Brazilians' formidable front three.
His direct opponent is likely to be Chiefs defender Inacio Miguel, whose defensive performances have been inconsistent since his arrival. While the Angolan international has demonstrated moments of solidity, he has yet to establish consistent reliability at the back.
Miguel faces a considerable challenge in containing the in-form Namibian frontman, who has been in scintillating form in recent matches.
3 – Iqraam Rayners vs Reeve Frosler
Rayners, currently the second-highest scorer in the Betway Premiership behind Lucas Ribeiro, has proven to be a pivotal acquisition since joining Sundowns from Stellenbosch at the beginning of the season, consistently contributing to their attacking prowess.
Reeve Frosler, despite recent transfer speculation surrounding his future, has returned from injury and promptly reclaimed his place in the starting lineup.
Frosler will face a stern test in nullifying the threat of the rapid Rayners, known for his dangerous runs in behind opposition defences.
4 – Jayden Adams vs Thabo Cele
Adams, a January arrival for Mamelodi Sundowns, has seamlessly integrated into the team, making an immediate impact with two goals and one assist in his first eight appearances across all competitions.
Cele, a January signing for Chiefs, has provided a degree of steel to the Kaizer Chiefs midfield. While his initial performances were understated, recent matches have indicated a noticeable improvement in his overall play.
This midfield contest is anticipated to be a recurring theme throughout the match, with both Adams and Cele possessing composure and control in possession.
5 – Lucas Ribeiro vs Inacio Miguel/Rushwin Dortley
Sundowns' talismanic forward, Lucas Ribeiro, will be expected to be a key difference-maker in this fixture. As the league's leading goalscorer, he will be determined to maintain his prolific form.
The defensive pairing of Dortley and Miguel, or potentially one of them individually, will face a daunting task over the 90 minutes. They form the last line of defence tasked with neutralizing the intricate skills and attacking threat posed by the Brazilian star.
