South Africans will turn their attention to the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium on Wednesday night to watch an anticipated Tshwane Derby between hosts SuperSport United and Mamelodi Sundowns.
It will be a massive game since the Swanky Boys are aware that maximum points will at lest get them out of the 12th position, while Masandawana are aware a win will give them a massive nine-point lead between them and rivals Orlando Pirates.
Have a look at some factors anticipated ahead of the midweek fixture.
Will the fans rise to the occasion?
As opposed to the Soweto Derby – between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, the Tshwane Derby fans have not been rising to the occasion. They usually come in moderate numbers, maybe owing to SuperSport United's inconsistencies.
Masandawana have been attracting huge numbers owing to the quality of their squad and what they have been achieving. However, like any other derby, fans usually make it even more attractive. The supporters need to come out in numbers to support their own.
The Hunt and Cardoso tactics
Well, SuperSport United coach Gavin Hunt has not had the privilege of coaching outside Mzansi like Miguel Cardoso. However, he has secured several top titles in the Premier Soccer League with several teams.
Cardoso is just a few months into South African football meaning he still has a lot of learning to do. While Hunt might already have in mind the specific effective tactic that might bring Masandawana down to their knees.
New attackers for either team, but who will deliver?
SuperSport United have recently added Christian Saile and Samir Nurkovic in their attacking department. The duo has initially played in the Soweto Derby while turning for Chiefs, and to them, pressure is nothing. However, they have that hunger to make a statement for the Swanky Boys, which is a massive motivation to deliver.
Iqraam Rayners marked his arrival at Sundowns with a strike in the first meeting between the teams this season that ended 2-0 in favour of the defending PSL Champions. Versatile attacking midfielder Jayden Adams is another player who might make his debut in the derby after joining from Stellenbosch in the local winter transfer window.
Another Sundowns win?
In recent meetings, Masandawana have been dominating the Tshwane Derby. Actually, they have three wins, a draw and a loss in the most recent five Premier Soccer League meetings.
In the initial meeting, this season, Downs claimed a 2-0 win. The Swanky Boys have been struggling to get their footing this season, meaning Sundowns might complete a double over them.
What is the story for the season, so far?
In the ongoing campaign, Masandawana have played 13 PSL games, won 12 and suffered a single loss. They have scored the most goals, 28, and conceded joint least goals, 5, alongside second-placed Orlando Pirates.
SuperSport have played 15 games but have just four wins, as many draws, and seven losses. They have scored just six goals and conceded 13, which is poor by their standards. The Swanky Boys are currently placed 12th on the log with 16 points. If those stats are anything to consider, then Downs have a better chance.
