Mamelodi Sundowns and AmaZulu confirm starting XIs for Betway Premiership clash

Mamelodi Sundowns and AmaZulu FC have named their starting line-ups for this evening’s Betway Premiership meeting at Loftus Versfeld, with the African champions looking to recover from their MTN8 semi-final first-leg defeat.

Sundowns were beaten 1-0 by Lamontville Golden Arrows on Sunday, but return to league action with the opportunity to move level on points with Orlando Pirates. The league leaders collected maximum points on Tuesday night, increasing the pressure on the defending champions to respond.

Despite the setback against Golden Arrows, Sundowns have made a strong start to their league campaign. They have collected seven points from the nine available after their opening three matches.

AmaZulu have matched that return, also taking seven points from their first three games after recording two wins and a draw. Usuthu’s progress in the MTN8 was halted in the quarter-finals, however, when they were eliminated by Sekhukhune United following a seven-goal thriller.

The two teams arrive at Loftus Versfeld with contrasting preparations. The KwaZulu-Natal-based AmaZulu side has had 11 days to rest before the fixture, while Sundowns have had a shorter turnaround following Sunday’s match. Masandawana must also prepare for the second leg of their MTN8 semi-final against Lamontville Golden Arrows at the weekend.

Sundowns have dominated the recent league meetings between the sides. They have won the past six matches in the competition and are unbeaten in their last nine encounters with AmaZulu. Usuthu’s most recent victory over Masandawana came in December 2021.

Mamelodi Sundowns start with Williams in goal, behind a defence of Morena, Khoza, Kekana and Basadien. Mokoena and Mkhulise are included in midfield, while Ndlovu, Matthews, Mailula and Leon complete the starting XI.

Mamelodi Sundowns XI: Williams, Morena, Khoza, Kekana, Basadien, Mokoena, Mkhulise, Ndlovu, Matthews, Mailula, Leon

Substitutes: Goss, Ndamane, Modiba, B. Mokoena, Rayners, Allende, Zwane, Mdunyelwa, Letlhaku

AmaZulu name Kouassi as their goalkeeper, with Radebe, Hanamub, Mthethwa and Fielies forming the defensive line. Mdaka, Bern and Zikhali are also selected, while Ngwenya, Maqokolo and Mbanjwa lead the attacking options.

AmaZulu FC XI: Kouassi, Radebe, Hanamub, Mthethwa, Fielies, Mdaka, Bern, Zikhali, Ngwenya, Maqokolo, Mbanjwa

Substitutes: Mzimela, Phillips, Allan, Mhlongo, Hlangabeza, Moralo, Sithole, Mokoena, Matlhoko