Sundowns-Pirates clash headlines the return of the DStv Premiership
The DStv Premiership returns on 30 December following a FIFA World Cup break, and Mamelodi Sundowns host rivals Orlando Pirates in one of the most anticipated matches.
The two sides will be locking horns for the fourth time this season. They met twice in the MTN8 semi-finals back in October. Later on, they faced each other in the Carling Black Label Cup final in November.
The Soweto giants were three-nil winners in the second leg after a nil-all first leg of the MTN8. In the Black Label, Masandawana humiliated their opponents 4-0 to clinch the cup.
In the DStv Premiership table, the Tshwane giants sit at the summit of the log with 28 points from 12 matches. On the other hand, the Bucs are fifth after accumulating 19 points from 13 outings.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
CASSIUS MAILULA [MAMELODI SUNDOWNS]
The 21-year-old has been in great form since his breakthrough to the first team. Mailula was able to fill the void that injured Peter Shalulile left towards the FIFA World Cup break. The academy sensation scored eight goals and provided one assist in six matches in all competitions.
KERMIT ERASMUS [ORLANDO PIRATES]
Erasmus returned to the club ahead of the current season from Sundowns. He has already made an impact after scoring against his former club in the MTN8 semi-final second leg. In the league, the 32-year-old has scored two goals in seven matches in all competitions.
Kickoff at Loftus Versfeld is at 15:30.
OTHER DSTV PREMIERSHIP FIXTURES:
Friday 30 December
Stellenbosch FC v Chippa United
Cape Town City v Royal AM
SuperSport United v Marumo Gallants
Maritzburg United v TS Galaxy
Saturday 31 December
Kaizer Chiefs v Golden Arrows
Richards Bay v Swallows FC
Sekhukhune United v AmaZulu
RELATED STORY: English manager picks three areas Sundowns outdo Pirates and Chiefs