Orlando Pirates might be having a surprise in store for Mamelodi Sundowns for their much-anticipated match this afternoon with changes likely to be made in the line-up.
The South African football community is abuzz as Sundowns prepare to host Pirates at Loftus Versfeld Stadium this afternoon in a fixture that is pivotal in the Betway Premiership title race, with the defending champions leading the table and Bucs trailing by six points with a game in hand.
Read: Forced Changes Anticipated In Pirates Vs Sundowns Showdown
Pirates, under the guidance of coach Jose Riveiro, have excelled in cup competitions but have finished second to Sundowns in the league for two consecutive seasons.
Securing the league title this year would cement Riveiro's status as one of the club's most successful coaches.
In their midweek 2-1 victory over Sekhukhune United, defender Thabiso Sesane sustained an injury, making him doubtful for the upcoming match.
Tapelo Xoki is expected to step in as his replacement.
Additionally, in what could be Bucs' surprise approach to confuse Downs, rising star Mohau Nkota, who missed the Sekhukhune match, could return to the line-up after last featuring against Kaizer Chiefs.
Given the current squad status, the predicted starting eleven for Pirates is:
Sipho Chaine, Deano van Rooyen, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Tapelo Xoki, Paseka Mako, Deon Hotto, Makhehleni Makhaula, Kabelo Dlamini, Patrick Maswanganyi, Evidence Makgopa, Relebohile Mofokeng.
Read: Chiefs Confirm Move For Mdantsane
This line-up aims to balance defensive solidity with attacking prowess as Pirates seek to narrow the gap at the top of the table.
The match promises to be a thrilling encounter with significant implications for the title race.
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