Mamelodi Sundowns aim to return to winning ways against unbeaten AmaZulu

Mamelodi Sundowns will be looking to respond to their MTN8 semi-final first-leg defeat when they host unbeaten AmaZulu in the Betway Premiership at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday.

Sundowns lost 1-0 to Golden Arrows on Sunday, leaving them with a difficult task in the second leg this weekend. However, they can quickly shift their focus back to the league, where they are third in the table and three points behind leaders Orlando Pirates.

Orlando Pirates moved to the top after defeating Sekhukhune United on Tuesday, increasing the importance of Sundowns securing a positive result in midweek.

AmaZulu, meanwhile, will be aiming to continue their impressive start to the campaign. Usuthu currently occupy fourth place and remain unbeaten in the league.

Their latest league match ended in victory against winless Siwelele FC. AmaZulu’s most recent domestic defeat came against Kaizer Chiefs towards the end of last season, meaning they have avoided defeat in every league game so far this term.

The visitors will also be attempting to overturn a poor recent record against Sundowns. Masandawana have not lost to AmaZulu in the league since December 2021 and have won each of the past six meetings between the sides.

Kick-off is scheduled for 19:30.

Confirmed line-ups

Mamelodi Sundowns will start with Williams in goal, while Morena, Khoza, Kekana and Basadien make up the defensive line. Mokoena and Mkhulise are included in midfield, with Ndlovu, Matthews, Mailula and Leon completing the starting XI.

Mamelodi Sundowns substitutes: Goss, Ndamane, Modiba, B. Mokoena, Rayners, Allende, Zwane, Mdunyelwa and Lethlaku.

AmaZulu’s starting side features Kouassi, Radebe, Mthethwa, Fielies and Hanamub, with Mdaka, Bern and Zikhali also selected. Ngwenya, Maqokolo and Mbanjwa complete the line-up.

AmaZulu substitutes: Mzimela, Phillips, Allan, Mhlongo, Hlangabeza, Moralo, Sithole, Mokoena and Matlhoko.

The fixture gives Sundowns an opportunity to strengthen their position near the top of the Betway Premiership while rebuilding momentum after their setback against Golden Arrows. AmaZulu will arrive with confidence from their unbeaten league run and the chance to extend their positive start against one of the division’s leading teams.