Richards Bay name Dimitar Pantev-era XI as Sundowns target Betway Premiership summit

Richards Bay and Mamelodi Sundowns have confirmed their starting line-ups for this evening’s Betway Premiership match at Princess Magogo Stadium.

The fixture marks the beginning of Dimitar Pantev’s tenure as Richards Bay head coach, three weeks after the Bulgarian was appointed. The Natal Rich Boys are still searching for their first win of the season, having lost four of their seven matches and drawn three.

Richards Bay are 14th in the table with three points. They have scored nine goals and conceded 16.

Pantev has been handed the task of turning around the club’s fortunes, with his side facing the league’s most in-form team.

Mamelodi Sundowns have won two trophies in the space of a month and arrive in Durban after a major MTN8 final victory against Orlando Pirates. The African Champions are seeking another league win to retain top spot.

Sundowns have collected 20 points from eight matches and are the division’s leading scorers with 19 goals. Victory would ensure they remain at the summit.

The visitors also have a strong recent record in Durban. Sundowns have won three of their past four meetings with Richards Bay at the venue, while the other match ended in a draw. They are the 2026 MTN8 champions.

Richards Bay starting XI

Richards Bay will start with Otieno in goal, behind a defensive and midfield line-up featuring Makhalala, Mabuya, Mkhabela, Mcineka, Gumbi and Khumalo.

Mthembu, Xulu, Gumede and Nzama complete the starting team.

Richards Bay substitutes: Ngcobo, Mntungwa, Sikhakhane, Ndelu, Mncube, Ngema, Ngidi, Mahala, Mbambo.

Mamelodi Sundowns starting XI

Mamelodi Sundowns will be led by goalkeeper Williams, with Ndamane, Matuludi, Khoza and Basadien named in defence.

Mokoena, Allende and Ndlovu make up the midfield, while Matthews, Mailula and Rayners are selected in attack.

Mamelodi Sundowns substitutes: Goss, Leon, Mvala, Morena, Lunga, Cele, Santos, Zwane, Van Wyk.