Written by Aaron Crowie for @Hollywoodbets. Follow them both on Twitter and Facebook now!
Kaizer Chiefs v Mamelodi Sundowns | Saturday 9 January | FNB Stadium | 20:15
The South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) kicks off with a bang this year as the defending champions, Kaizer Chiefs, welcome the current log leaders, Mamelodi Sundowns, to the famed FNB Stadium for an unmissable weekend thriller. After the Brazilians crushed the Chiefs 3-1 in the Telkom Knockout final last December, the Glamour Boys are fired up and ready to seek sweet revenge.
To Win Match
Chiefs 31/20
Draw 22/10
Sundowns 31/20
Kaizer Chiefs
Before the PSL break, Chiefs gave a stunning performance against Bidvest Wits, coming from behind to win 2-1 at the Cape Town Stadium. Lorenzo Gordinho was the hero with a 73rd-minute winning goal after Daine Klate had equalised Willard Katsande’s early strike. That win brought Chiefs within touching distance of Wits on the log, easing the pain of their second cup final loss this season.
The Chiefs currently sit fourth in the league, and a win could catapult them above Black Aces into third, with the added bonus of closing the gap on Sundowns to just two points. Home ground has been kind to Amakhosi with four wins from six games and just one defeat – that being to fierce rivals Orlando Pirates. Impressively, they remain undefeated away from home this season.
Gone are the days when Chiefs would sit back and soak up pressure. Under Coach Steve Komphela, they have transformed into a tactically sound unit, focused on controlling possession and pressing aggressively upon losing the ball. Willard Katsande has been a linchpin in midfield, providing strength, tenacity, and a goal threat. On the wings, the elusive speed and flair of Siphiwe Tshabalala and George Lebese keep defences on their toes. Up front, Camaldine Abraw offers a spark; despite a goal drought, his ability to change the game in a moment remains formidable.
Mamelodi Sundowns
The Brazilians capped a fantastic 2015 by securing the top spot in the Absa Premiership table. Fresh off their Telkom Knockout victory over Chiefs, Sundowns also defeated Orlando Pirates 2-0 at Loftus Versfeld with goals from Leonardo Castro and Khama Billiat. This put Sundowns level on points with Bidvest Wits but ahead on goal difference.
They also lead the Q-Innovation quarter two standings, chasing a R1.5 million prize, boasting a perfect record of four wins from four games. Sundowns have been in scintillating form, winning seven of their last eight league matches, including a streak of four in a row. Their away form is solid, with three wins out of six matches, scoring five goals on the road.
Coach Pitso Mosimane has moulded Sundowns into an exciting, fast-paced team that aims to win convincingly while maintaining defensive discipline. Their squad is packed with flair and experience from back to front. Billiat and Themba Zwane have been pivotal in midfield, both netting three goals this season. Zwane’s speed on the flanks and pinpoint crosses, combined with Billiat’s creative vision and passing ability, pose constant threats to opponents. Keegan Dolly adds further pace and skill with his ability to slice open defences.
Verdict: Draw 22/10
With evenly matched squads, this fixture promises a tactical battle and mental resilience will be as crucial as skill. Sundowns seem to have a slight edge on form but Chiefs’ fortress-like home record makes them tough to beat. Given these factors, a draw looks a likely and exciting result.
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