By Mark Ogagan
South Africa’s DStv Premiership returns this weekend after an absence of more than six weeks due to the recently concluded CAF Africa Cup of Nations.
Headlining this weekend’s fixtures is the mammoth clash between title holders Mamelodi Sundowns (Pictured), and cross city rivals Orlando Pirates slated for Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria. The game kicks off at 8pm on Saturday, with the Brazilians looking to continue the incredible form which has seen them establish a nine-point lead at the top of the log despite playing two games fewer than their nearest chasers.
The Tshwane club are unbeaten in 14 league matches this season and have put 38 points on the board out of a possible 42.
Pirates, meanwhile, are a full 13 points behind their opponents and looking to break an eight-game winless run against ‘Downs in league matches which stretches back to 2020.
The match is given further spice by the controversial transfer of Pirates fan-favourite Thembinkosi Lorch to Sundowns on the final day of the January transfer window.
“When you have a player like Thembinkosi Lorch available in the market and can give you an immediate outlet to help the team to work towards its objectives, of course, you have to try and see how possible [it is to have him],” said Brazilians coach Rhulani Mokwena.
He added, “We are delighted to have recruited a player of his stature and magnitude because of course he comes in having expectations and the pressure to deliver. He is the type of player who big things can be expected from him.”
The league has been inactive since December 31 due to the recently-completed Africa Cup of Nations and its resumption will be made official on Friday night with a clash between SuperSport United and Stellenbosch FC at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.
Saturday, aside from the Sundowns v Pirates clash, also features Moroka Swallows (who have been embroiled in an ugly dispute with their players which saw their final two games of 2023 cancelled) returning to action with a clash at home to Polokwane City, Cape Town City visit Chippa United, relegation favourites Cape Town Spurs will host AmaZulu, and Sekhukhune United tackle Richards Bay in Polokwane.
Sunday sees two games on the card, with Royal AM looking to again be a thorn in the side of Kaizer Chiefs at the Harry Gwala Stadium, before TS Galaxy tackle Golden Arrows at the Mbombela Stadium.
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