Mamelodi Sundowns are out to maintain their unbeaten run when they face SuperSport United on Tuesday night. Sundowns are looking to also dominate the proceedings in the Tshwane Derby at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
Masandawana head to the DStv Premiership clash on the back of a 2-0 win over Chippa United last weekend. Coach Rulani Mokwena’s men are yet to suffer a defeat after 17 league games.
For coach Gavin Hunt’s men, SuperSport are still ruing their chances after playing to a 1-all draw against AmaZulu last weekend. Amatsatsantsa A Pitori have five losses at number four on the log table with 32 points from 19 games.
Mamelodi Sundowns vs SuperSport United Match Details
Date: March 12, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM SAST
Venue: Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria
Mamelodi Sundowns: Masandawana out to maintain unbeaten run
Coach Rulani Mokwena’s side keeps setting new records as they have extended their run to 41 matches.
The Chloorkop-based side is also chasing their seventh consecutive league title. Meeting SuperSport who are also gunning for a spot in the Caf Champions League means the Tshwane Derby is set to be an entertaining affair.
Boasting top players such as Themba Zwane and Marcelo Allende in the heart of the park means the reigning league champions will be a tough customer for United.
SuperSport United: Amatsatsantsa looking to stop Sundowns
Meanwhile, the experienced Hunt is also gunning to return to winning ways after they were held by Usuthu at home.
The four-time PSL winner, Hunt is aware that stopping Sundowns will give him bragging rights. They have five losses and as many draws next to their name but facing a star-studded Sundowns will be a difficult task for Hunt and his young squad.
Key Battles to Watch
Marcelo Allende vs Grant Margeman:
The battle between the two Tshwane giants will be mainly in the heart of the park. Allende is known for his beautiful and defence-splitting passes that will be key for Sundowns. On the other hand, Margeman has just received a call-up to the Bafana Bafana squad and will look to cut all the attempts by Sundowns.
Aubrey Modiba vs Lyle Lakay:
With the possibility of welcoming Khuliso Mudau for the clash, Sundowns remain blessed with talents such as Modiba whose runs will be crucial for the hosts. Modiba’s also boasts an educated foot for set pieces.
Looking at the other side of the field, Lakay is looking to prove a point against his former employers. The ex-Sundowns defender will also look to make his runs on the left wing and frustrate Sundowns.
Rulani Mokwena vs Gavin Hunt:
There’s no doubt Hunt is the most experienced between the two coaches and he will want to prove his expertise. While he lamented the fact that some of his senior players are unavailable, he will turn to the likes of Thulani Hlatshwayo and Onismor Bhasera.
On the part of the Brazilians, Mokwena understands the demands of modern football and will head to the match prepared for a physical duel. Mokwena, 37, is one of the brightest coaches in the game and he will look to cement his place at the top of the table.
Mamelodi Sundowns vs SuperSport United: Head to Head
Coming to head to head statistics, Sundowns are the dominant force in the Tshwane Derby. However, previous results don’t matter in a derby match.
Last 5 Matches:
- Mamelodi Sundowns Wins: 3
- Draws: 1
- SuperSport United Wins: 1
Total Goals (Last 5 Matches):
- Mamelodi Sundowns: 7
- SuperSport United: 4
Biggest Mamelodi Sundowns Win: 2-0
Biggest SuperSport United Win: 2-1
Fan Sentiments
Taking a glance at the fans and emotions outside of the field of play, Sundowns are expected to continue their dominance as Tshwane Kings. However, this derby always produces shocking results just like any derby. There’s also no doubt that many fans will want to see Sundowns finally cracking and losing a match.
Prediction
Sundowns have assembled a strong squad and have laid a solid foundation under Mokwena. Concerning SuperSport and Hunt, this game will go in favour of Masandawana.
Related: Sundowns: Rulani on why Tshwane Derby Is Different from Soweto Derby