Fresh off a historic Caf Champions League triumph, Mamelodi Sundowns return to domestic duty on Wednesday night as they host Richards Bay at Loftus Versfeld.
But while the celebrations from their semifinal heroics in Cairo are still fresh, the grind of the Betway Premiership waits for no one.
Masandawana remain in pole position atop the league standings as they chase an unprecedented eighth consecutive Premiership title. However, a recent 2-1 slip-up against rivals Orlando Pirates has slightly tightened the race. With the Buccaneers nine points behind and holding two games in hand, every match from here on out feels like a final for the Pretoria giants.
“We need to tackle every game with ambition,” said head coach Miguel Cardoso. “The goal is simple, get as many points as fast as we can and keep the pressure on our challengers.”
That urgency is amplified by a demanding fixture list. Cardoso has voiced frustration over what he sees as a lack of consideration from local football authorities, citing a packed schedule that includes three matches in eight days.
“After returning from Cairo on Friday, we were due to play City on Sunday, but that match was brought forward to Saturday,” said the Masandawana mentor. “Now we’re playing Wednesday, Saturday, and again next Wednesday. It’s not just a test of fitness, it’s a test of respect for what this club represents in African football.”
Despite the congestion, Sundowns are riding high after a 1-1 draw against Al Ahly secured them a spot in the Champions League final, an achievement that continues to cement their status as continental heavyweights.
Meanwhile, Richards Bay are fighting a very different battle. The KZN outfit currently sits 13th on the table, hovering near the relegation zone. However, a gritty 1-0 win over Cape Town City has injected much-needed belief into their campaign.
“This team is starting to find its rhythm,” said Richards Bay head coach Ronnie Gabriel. “Against City, everything clicked, the pressing, the transitions, the chemistry. It was a complete performance.”
With both sides desperate for points-one to seal a title, the other to avoid the drop, Wednesday’s clash promises to be anything but routine.
