Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs are set to ignite Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium in a highly anticipated Betway Premiership showdown this Saturday, March 1st, with kickoff scheduled for 3:30 PM.
Ahead of this crucial encounter, Afrik-Foot spotlights three key players from each side who could determine the outcome.
Sundowns players to watch
1 – Lucas Ribeiro
Ribeiro has arguably been Mamelodi Sundowns' most influential player this season, consistently delivering match-winning performances. His contributions have already positioned him as a leading contender for the coveted Footballer of the Season award.
His recent demolition of Orlando Pirates, highlighted by a brace in their dominant 4-1 victory at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, underscored his capacity to perform on the big stage.
Notably, Ribeiro also found the net against Chiefs in their first-round encounter, further demonstrating his knack for decisive goals in crucial fixtures against major rivals.
2 – Jayden Adams
Adams is quickly establishing himself as a key figure for Masandawana after his January move from Stellenbosch FC.
In a short space of time, the forward has already delivered a significant impact, contributing two goals and one assist in just eight appearances across all competitions.
3 – Peter Shalulile
Shalulile, currently pursuing the PSL's all-time top goal-scorer record, has rediscovered his scoring form, particularly since the arrival of coach Miguel Cardoso.
The prolific Namibian forward consistently elevates his game in high-stakes encounters, and has a proven track record of scoring against Chiefs on numerous occasions, making him a significant threat to “Amakhosi” once again.
Chiefs players to watch
1 – Thabo Cele
Cele has provided a significant boost to Nasreddine Nabi's Chiefs squad after joining the club as a free agent during the January transfer window.
The experienced 28-year-old midfielder just walked into the starting lineup and is rapidly solidifying his position as a key figure in the Soweto giants' midfield, offering both composure and creativity.
2 – Makabi Lilepo
The 27-year-old forward also joined the Phefeni Glamour Boys in the midseason along with Cele and Tashreeq Morris.
The dynamic DRC international forward has quickly adapted to the PSL, finding the back of the net on three occasions in a short space of time. Coach Nabi will be relying on Lilepo to spearhead the Chiefs attack and provide a goalscoring threat.
3 – Mduduzi Shabalala
In the absence of Gaston Sirino, Chiefs will be relying on Shabalala as a playmaker. The Chiefs DDC product has emerged as key player for under the leadership of Nasreddine Nabi this season.
The 21-year-old has netted four goals and registered two assists in 20 matches across all competitions.
