Sundowns, Pirates set for high-stakes showdown

THE rivalry between Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates has quickly become one of the biggest events on the local sporting calendar.

- MIHLALI BALEKA

When the two teams meet in a Betway Premiership clash at Loftus Versfeld tomorrow afternoon (kickoff 3.30pm), there will be no love lost.

Sundowns have been the dominant team over the past eight years, winning the league title now known as the Betway Premiership. Pirates, however, have been hot on the Brazilians' heels in the last three seasons, finishing runners-up each time.

The intense rivalry has spilled over onto both domestic and international levels. Pirates have beaten Sundowns in their last three cup meetings in the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup.