Mamelodi Sundowns begin Betway Premiership defence against Richards Bay

Newly crowned MTN8 champions Mamelodi Sundowns return to Betway Premiership action against Richards Bay at Princes Magogo Stadium on Tuesday evening.

The Brazilians ended a three-week wait for competitive football on Saturday, beating rivals Orlando Pirates 2-0 in the MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Miguel Cardoso’s side face a short journey to Richards Bay as they resume their league campaign at the top of the table. Sundowns hold a one-point advantage over second-placed Pirates, who play TS Galaxy on Tuesday evening.

Richards Bay are still seeking their first league victory of the season after collecting three draws and suffering four defeats in their opening seven matches.

The Natal Rich Boys are 14th in the standings, although victory would move them as high as seventh.

Both teams have named their starting line-ups.

Richards Bay: 1. Otieno, 37. Makhalala, 22. Mabuya, 49. Mkhabela, 25. Mcineka, 12. Gumbi, 77. Khumalo, 20. Mthembu, 27. Xulu, 24. Gumede, 19. Nzama

Substitutes: 16. Ngcobo, 3. Mntungwa, 5. Sikhakhane, 35. Ndelu, 6. Mncube, 33. Ngema, 26. Ngidi, 34. Mahala, 31. Mbambo

Mamelodi Sundowns: 30. Williams, 3. Ndamane, 42. Khoza, 22. Matuludi, 23. Basadien, 4. Mokoena, 11. Allende, 38. Ndlovu, 17. Matthews, 33. Mailula, 13. Rayners

Substitutes: 31. Goss, 12. Leon, 40. Mvala, 27. Morena, 5. Lunga, 19. Cele, 10. Santos, 18. Zwane, 29. Van Wyk