Mamelodi Sundowns vs Marumo Gallants – Preview, Predictions and Best Bets

Downs can move two points clear at the summit of the PSL. Miguel Cardoso’s side are set to make a number of changes to their XI.

Mamelodi Sundowns Form

Sundowns are hitting top form as we enter the business end of the season. A 2-1 win at Orlando Pirates was a key win in the title race. They lost 2-0 to TS Galaxy in the Nedbank Cup with a second-string XI before winning 1-0 at AmaZulu in a one-sided affair with 29 shots at the Usuthu goal.

Since then, they’ve scored two late goals to beat Sekhukhune United 3-1 before a 2-1 home win over Golden Arrows with ten men. A routine 2-0 win away at Orbit College was followed by a statement win last Friday. Downs smashed Stade Malien 3-0 in their CAF Champions League quarter-final first leg.

Mamelodi Sundowns Team News

Coach Miguel Cardoso has Zuko Mdunyelwa and Keanu Cupido available after injuries. Mothobi Mvala is the only injured player right now. Aubrey Modiba, Khuliso Mudau and Jayden Adams are all suspended for this match.

Thapelo Morena and Fawaaz Basadien are expected to start at fullback. The likes of Monnapule Saleng and Iqraam Rayners are set to start in attack. Marcelo Allende will replace Adams in the engine room.

Mamelodi Sundowns Motivation

Downs were boosted by Pirates dropping points on Saturday. They know that a win puts them top of the table and in control of the title race.

With the Stade Malien second leg only on Sunday, they can give full concentration to winning this match.

Marumo Gallants Form

Marumo are bang in the relegation mix. They were on a nine-match streak without a victory before winning their penultimate fixture. They currently sit 14^th in the PSL table, with only goal difference keeping them above the relegation playoff spot.

A 1-0 Nedbank Cup defeat away to TS Galaxy was followed by a 3-0 loss at Orlando Pirates. A 1-0 loss at home to Durban City meant their losing streak sat at seven matches. They pulled off a shock 3-1 win at Chippa United, but returned to losing ways on Saturday. They played 53 minutes with ten men in a 2-1 home loss to Golden Arrows.

Marumo Gallants Team News

Sibusiso Sikhosana is back from suspension to boost the defence. Katlego Otladisa missed this match against his former club after a red card in the last match.

Marumo Gallants interim co-coach Trevor Mathiane may look to recall Siphosakhe Ntiya-Ntiya at left back. Bheki Mabuza is expected to replace Otladisa on the wing, with Jaisen Clifford an injury doubt.

Marumo Gallants Motivation

Gallants took a point off Sundowns earlier this season and also drew with them in the Carling Knockout Cup. They will take confidence from those results.

A draw here would feel like a win. If trailing, they may go into damage control mode and look to protect their goal difference.

Key Stats

• Sundowns have won 22 of their last 23 PSL matches at home (with 15 clean sheets).
• Sundowns have won 20 of their last 23 home league matches by 2+ goal margin.
• Marumo Gallants have won just 1 of their last 13 matches
• Marumo Gallants have drawn their 2 matches vs Sundowns this season
• Gallants have lost 7 of their 11 away league games this season

Verdict

Sundowns are in great form and should win this match. I don’t see them leaking a goal and they should win by at least a two-goal margin.

Best Bet: Mamelodi Sundowns win to zero at 1.66

Alternate Bet: Sundowns win (-1 goal handicap) at 1.77

Correct Score Tip: Mamelodi Sundowns 2-0 Marumo Gallants at 4.20