Sundowns, Pirates set for high-stakes showdown at Loftus

THE rivalry between Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates has quickly become one of the biggest events on the local sporting calendar. When the two teams meet in a Betway Premiership clash at Loftus Versfeld tomorrow (kickoff 3.30pm), there will be no love lost.

- MIHLALI BALEKA.

MAMELODI Sundowns, coached by Miguel Cardoso, and Orlando Pirates clash at Loftus Versfeld in a Betway Premiership showdown, with Pirates looking to draw level on points and Sundowns aiming to extend their league lead despite key absences.

(Backpagepix)

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.

This season, the sides played to a 1-1 aggregate draw in the MTN8 semifinal, but Pirates held their nerve when it mattered most, winning the tie on penalties to progress to the final, where they beat Stellenbosch 3-0 to claim a record fourth Wafa Wafa crown.