Sundowns and Pirates resume Betway Premiership title race after three-week break

Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates return to Betway Premiership action on Tuesday, with both clubs back in contention at the top of the table after a three-week break.

Sundowns head into their league fixture against Richards Bay as leaders, having followed their important MTN8 final victory on Saturday with the aim of staying at the summit until the end of the month.

The Brazilians have remained in Durban and will face Richards Bay at Princess Magogo at 19h30. Victory would guarantee Sundowns top spot until October 31.

Orlando Pirates, who have played one match fewer than Sundowns, need three points against TS Galaxy to remain within reach of the defending leaders. That match will be played at Orlando Amstel Arena on Tuesday.

If both sides win, Sundowns will remain first and Pirates second in the standings.

Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso said his team could not afford to lose focus after securing the MTN8 trophy.

“We need to keep our stability, we need to keep our minds on the road, look ahead,” said Cardoso.

“There are more things obviously.

“We are happy now and it is good to arrive in October and have collected two trophies.

“It is absolutely fantastic for us, for the players, for the club but there are so many to play for that we need.”

Cardoso’s side have another seven opportunities to compete for silverware this season. Alongside the Betway Premiership and the CAF Champions League, Sundowns will contest the CAF Super Cup, Carling KnockOut, Challenger Cup, FIFA Intercontinental Cup and Nedbank Cup.

The Portuguese coach acknowledged that the schedule would be demanding, with Sundowns due to play on Tuesday before travelling to Angola for another match on Saturday.

“We play on Tuesday and then Saturday in Angola so it’s a rollercoaster, but we have to enjoy rollercoasters because… it is part of having fun and I always tell my players to have fun while you play,” he said.

“Even if you need to handle the match by the neck, enjoy it.

“Enjoy those moments because it is important to do it.”

The MTN8 success means Sundowns have already won two trophies by the start of October, but their immediate focus is on maintaining their advantage in the league.

Pirates, meanwhile, have the opportunity to apply pressure because of their game in hand. A win against TS Galaxy would ensure they stay in second place if Sundowns also collect maximum points against Richards Bay.