Three key battles that could decide the Mamelodi Sundowns vs Orlando Pirates clash

There are games that can be decided by individual brilliance, collective effort, or a combination of both. But such is the magnitude of the Betway Premiership clash between Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday afternoon that it could be determined by all of these factors.

That’s why, below, we look at three key match-ups that could decide this blockbuster clash in the nation’s capital.

Bathusi Aubaas v Masindi Nemtajela

Aubaas is expected to slot in for the suspended Teboho Mokoena at the heart of Sundowns’ midfield. After a couple of impressive performances - in which he has cleaned up defensively and linked up play effectively - Aubaas is expected to fit in seamlessly, like a glove.

However, Aubaas is expected to be given a real test when he faces one of the league’s most rapidly improving midfield kingpins. Nemtajela is quickly finding his feet at Pirates, producing incisive passes thanks to his ability to scan his surroundings and dictate play.

Peter Shalulile v Mbekezeli Mbokazi

The PSL’s all-time top goal scorer, Shalulile, is beginning to show glimpses of his old self at Sundowns after a sluggish end to last season. He continues to press defenders and hold up play to bring his teammates into the attack. Coach Miguel Cardoso’s decision to play him alongside Arthur Sales has also greatly improved Shalulile’s finishing.

However, the Namibian international won’t have it easy on Saturday. He’ll be watched closely by arguably the best defender in the league. Mbokazi has come of age - he makes timely tackles and refuses to be bullied, with or without the ball. He’s also shown a knack for scoring spectacular goals, including a recent thunderbolt at Orlando.

Khuliso Mudau v Tshepang Moremi

After resolving his contractual issues at Sundowns, Mudau has returned to the side’s defence and restored stability. While he can charge up and down the right flank with relentless pace, it’s his ability to recover quickly and make crucial tackles that sets him apart.

The Bafana Bafana star can expect to work overtime on Saturday as he comes up against the electrifying and nippy Moremi. After a sluggish start to life at Pirates, Moremi is quickly looking like a true Buccaneer. He scores crucial goals and constantly takes the game to defenders; often leaving them eating his dust.