The highly-anticipated Betway Premiership clash between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns takes place on Sunday, 16 March at FNB Stadium.
This is widely considered a potential title-deciding fixture as these two giants lock horns.
Afrik-Foot takes a look at top five duels to keep an eye on:
- Nkosinathi Sibisi/Mbekezeli Mbokazi vs Lucas Ribeiro
Jose Riveiro is expected to field his established central defensive pairing of Nkosinathi Sibisi and Mbekezeli Mbokazi.
The duo from KwaZulu-Natal faces a formidable task in containing the in-form Lucas Ribeiro, who has been scoring for fun for Sundowns this season.
In their previous league meeting, the Brazilian left-footer troubled Sibisi and Tapelo Xoki, netting twice in Sundowns' dominant 4-1 home victory.
- Thalente Mbatha vs Teboho Mokoena
Mbatha was sidelined due to injury in the first round when Ezimnyama Ngenkani were humbled by the league champions.
Pirates will be hoping to rely on the lanky midfielder in initiating combinations with the likes of Patrick Maswanganyi.
However, the KwaMashu-born star will have the seasoned Mokoena to deal with. The former SuperSport United man has been on fire under the tutelage of Miguel Cardoso.
- Makhehlene Makhaula vs Jayden Adams
Adams has hit the ground running in the colours of Brazilians following a move from Stellenbosch this past transfer window.
He has made immediate impact in strengthening the Bafana Ba Style’s midfield in recent matches.
He is likely to come up against Makhehlene Makhaula on numerous occasions. The former AmaZulu captain will be crucial for Pirates, aiming to shield his team's defense and break up Sundowns' attacks.
- Relebohile Mofokeng vs Khuliso Mudau
Mofokeng has seemingly disappeared in recent matches, struggling to help his side particularly in the absence of Maswanganyi who was injured.
On the other hand, Mudau has struggled somewhat with injuries and hasn’t played that much lately.
The two will come to blows several times as the Sea Robbers will be hoping that Mofokeng can rediscover his spark and create clear-cut chances from the left wing.
- Deano van Rooyen vs Iqraam Rayners
Van Rooyen and Rayners know each other very well from their days at Stellenbosch. However, the Pirates right-back will have to be cautious in how he deals with the Bafana Bafana striker.
Rayners has been problematic with his dangerous runs in behind the defense, especially when he receives deep passes from midfield and the backline.
