Orlando Pirates vs Mamelodi Sundowns Prediction: Downs will stop Pirates
The rivalry between Soweto Giants Orlando Pirates and the capital's Mamelodi Sundowns is one of the most anticipated fixtures in South Africa. These two giants represented South Africa in last year's CAF Champions League. Making it to the Semifinals, then the finals for Mamelodi Sundowns where they fell to Pyramids FC. When you think of Peak South African soccer teams, only two teams come to mind, and they meet this Saturday in the Semi Finals of the MTN8.
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Orlando Pirates vs Mamelodi Sundowns Betting Tips
Team News
Pirates typically rely on a classic 4-2-3-1 formation, emphasizing quick transitions and wing play. Their attacking midfielder's creativity is crucial, often serving as the link between midfield and attack. Which is a far cry from the Orlando Pirates that we saw under the stewardship of Jose Riviero. Sundowns, on the other hand, favor a more possession-based approach with their 4-3-3 setup, focusing on controlling the game through midfield dominance and quick counterattacks.
Orlando Pirates Predicted Line-up (4-2-3-1): Chaine; Sibisi, Loki, Van Rooyen, Mbokazi; Mbule, Nemtajela; Mariko, Kwayiba, Hotto, Apollis
Mamelodi Sundowns Predicted Line-up (4-3-3) Williams; Cupido, Kekana, Lebusa, Modiba; Basadien, Allende, Mokoena; Matthews, Rayners, Mothiba
Recent Form and Expectations
Orlando Pirates come into this game in bad shape. They lost their last two matches in the PSL. Falling 2-1 to Marumo Gallants away from home and 0-1 to Sekhukhune United at home on the season's opening day. Fans are not happy and many have taken to social media to express their disappointment in the new coach and his tactics. However, he managed to secure a place in this season's NTN8 Semi-finals by managing a 2-0 win against Polokwane city. Traditionally Pirates are considered a cup team, which may see them rise to the ocassion against Mamelodi Sundowns.
Mamelodi Sundowns are in better form after winning at home against Amazulu and falling short 1-1 against Chippa United away on the opening day. They secured passage to the Semi-Finals of the MTN8 with a 4 goal thrashing of Richards Bay FC. They are considered the favourites and the team to back in this encounter.
Although form favours the team from the capital city Mamelodi Sundowns. I can't help but feel like the team that has won the MTN8 for 3 seasons running will do so again this year. Expect a thriller that may see an upset and the underdog coming out on top. Head to head, these two teams have struggled to keep a clean sheet in their last 4 encounters. They have both found the back of the net in 4 out of their last 5 meetings and Mamelodi Sundowns has been the first team on the scoresheet in 7 out of their last 9 matches. The last time they met Orland Pirates walked away victorious. I believe history will repeat itself.
