Our soccer pundit previews the PSL week 11 action which kicks off on Tuesday 21 November 2017.
The international break is finally over and the excitement is back with us as the Premier Soccer League kicks off again. It’s a nail-biting race at the summit with Baroka FC holding onto the top spot, but there’s a pack of challengers hot on their heels. Round 11 of the ABSA Premiership promises exhilarating clashes, with the headline fixture being the gripping encounter between Bidvest Wits and Mamelodi Sundowns. Let’s dive into the action!
Tuesday 21 November
Cape Town City 19/20 | Draw 39/20 | Baroka 33/10
Top of the table action sees Cape Town City, just two points behind the leaders, aiming to leapfrog Baroka FC into first place. Baroka have struggled recently with only one maximum points haul from the last five matches, drawing thrice and losing once. With rivals closing in, they must avoid slipping up any further.
Benni McCarthy’s squad bounced back from two straight defeats with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Free State Stars. The squad showed true grit by celebrating fervently after Taariq Fielies’ late winner. McCarthy, who had earlier been critical of his players, now has renewed confidence in them. Backing the hosts to grind out a vital win here.
Bidvest Wits 21/10 | Draw 22/10 | Mamelodi Sundowns 13/10
Bidvest Wits currently find themselves second from bottom, with five losses in nine games. However, their ability to upset top teams like Orlando Pirates and Baroka FC reveals their potential to punch above their weight. Sundowns have three games in hand and trail the leaders by just five points.
The Brazilians have been inconsistent, winning four and losing three matches. With early exits from the CAF Champions League and Telkom Knockout, prioritising league competition is critical. We’re tipping Sundowns to come out on top in this one.
Orlando Pirates 9/10 | Draw 2/1 | Golden Arrows 36/10
Orlando Pirates have struggled to convert chances, evident in their seven draws which has placed them seventh with 14 points. Though their style is attractive, they lack killer finishing.
Golden Arrows travel to Gauteng chasing a win that could send them temporarily to the summit. Sitting second with 15 points, they’re eager to close the gap on Baroka FC. Backing Orlando Pirates to secure maximum points at home.
Wednesday 22 November
AmaZulu 28/10 | Draw 23/10 | Kaizer Chiefs 9/10
Recall the Telkom Knockout match where Kaizer Chiefs blew away AmaZulu 3-0 at Moses Mabhida Stadium? This time, AmaZulu are hosting at King Zwelithini Stadium where they recently came from behind to beat Sundowns 2-1.
Kaizer Chiefs have been solid lately with three goalless draws and an impressive win over Mamelodi Sundowns. Their new 3-4-3 formation is shining after tough seasons. Conversion of chances remains key. Expect Chiefs to claim all three points.
Free State Stars 27/20 | Draw 17/10 | Chippa United 49/20
Free State Stars are showing the impact of Luc Eymael’s coaching as they avoid relegation troubles, narrowly losing to Cape Town City recently. They have 11 points from nine games.
Chippa United, guided by Teboho Moloi, play direct attacking football and have won their last three league matches following a sequence of draws. Fitness doubts loom over Kurt Lentjies after his recent injury. Backing the Chilli Boys to edge this one.
Platinum Stars 21/10 | Draw 21/10 | Bloemfontein Celtic 13/10
Platinum Stars linger at the bottom with just one win this season. Early exit from the Telkom Knockout might give them a chance to focus on league survival. They face Celtic, who dumped them from the Knockout.
Bloemfontein Celtic have bounced back, comfortably sitting fourth with three wins from their last five games. Coach Veselin Jelusic was even honoured Coach of the Month for October. Expect Celtic to maintain dominance over Dikwena.
Polokwane City 12/10 | Draw 21/10 | Maritzburg United 21/10
Polokwane City, despite calls to sack coach Bernard Molekwa, remain unbeaten in four games (three draws, one win). Their striker Rodney Ramagalela leads the PSL goalscoring charts and is the Player of the Month for October, a threat to Team of Choice.
Maritzburg United are in a dire run, winless in 10 matches and scoring just two goals. Coach Fadlu Davids is under pressure to produce results. A draw seems likely here.
TREBLE @ 4.3/1
- Kaizer Chiefs Win 9/10
- Cape Town City Win 19/20
- Chippa United Win 49/20
