We’re being treated to a humdinger this mid-week! Orlando Pirates host Mamelodi Sundowns in the DStv Premiership with early bragging rights up for grabs. Get the latest team news, kick-off times and more here!
Riveiro vs Mokwena: A Showdown Between Two of Mzansi’s Premier Tacticians
There will be very little room for error when Orlando Pirates host Mamelodi Sundowns at the Orlando Stadium on Wednesday evening. Both sides are well-coached and are looking forward to a busy season ahead where they are expected to bag silverware.
Jose Riveiro and Rhulani Mokwena are arguably two of best coaches of the last and current DStv Premeirship seasons – having raised the levels of the local game with high-quality results.
Under Mokwena, Sundowns haven’t lost a league match in 365 days and continue to enjoy a perfect start to the new season after winning their opening six games – already establishing an eight-point gap on second-placed Golden Arrows.
Riveiro joined Pirates in June 2022. He has gone on to help Orlando Pirates FC win the MTN 8 and the Nedbank Cup in 2023 and secured a 2nd spot finish in the DStv Premiership to qualify for the CAF Champions League in his first campaign.
But Wednesday’s fixture will also offer some early bragging rights for the victor – and Pirates will feel the pressure to win this as they currently trail the Brazilians by 11 points.
Mokwena vs Riveiro: 'Pirates are not special. We don't have to beat Downs' 🗣️🎙️
— GOAL South Africa (@GOALcomSA) September 19, 2023
Rhulani Mokwena and Jose Riveiro have shared their thoughts ahead of a crunchy clash between Pirates and Sundowns - but who will come out top? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/XWHDCi05kl
Last Meeting
4 February 2023
The last time the two teams met was in the 2022/23 DStv Premiership season where Cassius Mailula’s first-half goal was the difference – earning a 1-0 win for Sundowns at the same Orlando Stadium.
When and Where to Watch
Build up to the encounter starts at 19:00 live on SuperSport PSL (channel 202) on Wednesday, with match coverage beginning at 19:25.
Betting Odds
Pirates 2/1 | Draw 31/20 | Sundowns 31/20
Predicted Line-ups
Orlando Pirates
Mamelodi Sundowns
Orlando Stadium
Orlando Stadium is the heart of Soweto as it boasts a rich and proud history that dates back to 1959 when it was originally built.
After being demolished and rebuilt from scratch at a cost of R280 million, the new look Orlando Stadium now houses a capacity crowd of 37 139 spectators which includes 21 hospitality suites, two open hospitality areas, conference rooms, a gymnasium and a 200-seater auditorium.
Not only is the original ‘Mecca of South African football’ home to local giants and 1995 CAF Champions League winners, Orlando Pirates – but the venue has also moved up the popularity ranks for its hosting skills in major sports and entertainment events.
