By Motlalepula Maduna
Mamelodi Sundowns are three points away from sealing the Premier Soccer League (PSL) title for an unprecedented sixth time.
The ‘Brazilians’, as they are affectionately known, will be crowned the 2013/2014 champions if they beat neighbours and bitter rivals, Supersport United at Loftus stadium tonight. Kaizer Chiefs’ slip against struggling Free-State Stars last week means that Sundowns only need one win in the last two games to claim the coveted title that has been eluding them since the 2006/2007 season.
Games between two sides have often been electrifying and Supersport United have their own objectives going into the game. Besides the bragging rights of winning South Africa’s second biggest derby, United will be looking for three points to cement their place in the top 8. Given the significance of this Tshwane derby between Downs and United, Sundown’s management are offering free tickets to fans wearing the team’s regalia to ensure the team gets full support in pursuit of the much needed three points.
Mamelodi Sundowns, unlike the defending Champions, picked up winning momentum at the right time and have been on a winning streak in the latter stages of the PSL campaign. Coach Pitso Mosimane and midfield kingpin Teko Modise, who both walked away with the last Q- 4 Innovation awards, have been highly instrumental in the ‘Brazilians’ domination this season and are poised to win their maiden PSL medal.
Kaizer Chiefs, on the other hand, will be hoping to keep their slim chances of defending their title when they visit University of Pretoria at the Mbombela stadium. It has so far been a season to forget for the ‘Amakhosi’ who are now in danger of finishing the season empty handed after they were knocked out of the Nedbank Cup by Bidvest Wits over the weekend.
Elsewhere, the relegation battle looks set to take another twist with number of teams still in danger of being relegated or facing relegation playoffs.
Golden Arrows will be hoping to continue their late good run when they clash with Amazulu in a bid to avoid automatic promotion. Arrows are rooted at the bottom of the log, 4 points behind 15th place Free-State Stars who host Orlando Pirates at the Charles Mopeli stadium.
Another key fixture will see Polokwane City taking on strugglers Moroka Swallows with both teams in pursuit of maximum points to avoid the relegation play-offs.
All matches are scheduled kick-off at 19:30.
