Pre-Match Investigation: Mamelodi Sundowns vs. Orlando Pirates

It’s Wednesday at last and I woke up early today… music was pumping already at my friend’s flat (Sundowns fan) and the “old lady” knew that it’s Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates or Mamelodi Sundowns who are playing today.

Yes maGoGo its Mamelodi Sundowns hosting Orlando Pirates not at my friend's place… at Super Stadium tonight in their first ABSA Premier League game of the season. The last meeting between the two powerhouses ended in a 3-1 victory for the Mighty Buccaneers.

Goals - Pirates: (Bennet Chenene, Excellent Walaza and Gilbert Mushangazhike); Sundowns: (Peter Ndlovu)

Pirates who outclassed (Moroka Swallows, Kaizer Chiefs and Thanda Royal Zulu) will come to Super Stadium looking to continue their superb run in the league against The Brazilians – but the Buccaneers face a LION (Sundowns) which is hungry for FOOD (victory).

Mastermind: Coach Rudi Krol
Appointed head Coach of Orlando Pirates earlier in the season, Krol has done an outstanding job to assemble a squad which was questioned by many Bucs fans. The mix of experience from players such as Benson Mhlongo with flair from Modise and Terminator has made Pirates a dangerous team.

Key players
Teko – the engine
Terminator – the name explains it
Mhlongo – the bodyguard
Mbuyani – the finisher

Many can say Sundowns are not having a great start in the league, but in my view they are sixth which is not bad after nine games. They have enough talent and players to win the league and compete in Africa. One mustn’t judge them yet as they might surprise people… and the game against Pirates will be a great TEST.

Mastermind: Coach Henri Michel
With two games and managing to collect 4 points is a great start for the new Mamelodi Sundowns head coach, Henri Michel. He is one of the best coaches in Africa who has achieved a lot in his past years. However, Michel faces a down and out LION (Sundowns) who has failed to live up to expectations after signing all the BIG players. Michel is on a mission to change that and help Sundowns challenge for league honors and what better way to show his class against Amabhakabhaka.

Key players
Nyandoro – the engine
Vilakazi – the destroyer
Acuña – the supplier
Chabangu – the finisher

by Mduduzi (back with a BANG!)