Will Sundowns spoil the Happy People’s party?

Mamelodi Sundowns will go into their much-anticipated clash against Orlando Pirates on Saturday night hoping to reclaim the top spot. But Pirates will definitely try to protect their unbeaten run — more than 10 matches — to keep the number-one spot. This is going to be a tough battle.

Sundowns-Pirates clashes never disappoint and this time around there will be even more at stake.

Fresh from winning the Coach of the Month Award, Rudi Krol will expect nothing more than a win from his side. Beating Sundowns will strengthen the Buccaneers’ chances of winning the league title. Knowing all too well that the chasing pack is breathing down their necks, Pirates will be on top of their game to win and hopefully get some breathing space from the other title contenders.

They have proven to be very strong in attack this season and are scoring goals. So we can expect an open game full of goalmouth action considering that the Brazilians are also an attacking-minded team and finding the back of the net.

Looking at Sundowns, you can rest assured they will go into this game with more confidence following two impressive victories over Swallows and Santos. Sundowns scored five goals in these two matches despite losing coach Antonio Lopez Habas. The likes of the free-scoring Nyasha Mushekwi, Elias Pelembe and Lebo Mokoena are on top of their game. They will be expected to dish out some good performances against the log leaders.

One other motivating factor for the Downs players will be the fact that they have a new man in charge. They will be eager to impress caretaker coach Ian Gorowa so that they can earn regular starting positions in the team. Gorowa himself won’t have many problems when it comes to motivating his troops for this tough battle.

This will be an exciting game and we can expect both sides to come out firing from the first whistle.

Are we going to see Pirates continue their fine form or will Sundowns spoil the Happy People’s party?

That my friend, remains to be seen.