It may be early in the season, but the Betway Premiership clash between Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns at FNB Stadium this afternoon (3pm kick-off) could set the tone of the campaign for both teams.
While the overall performance of the two teams is expected to define the result, we look at key individual battles that could prove decisive for their respective sides.
Inacio Miguel (Chiefs) v Brayan Leon (Sundowns)
One of the leaders at Chiefs, Miguel is expected to command from the back. He must ensure the team is rock-solid, producing timely tackles and reading the game to maintain structure.
Leon will give Miguel and company a run for their money. The Colombian is lethal in the final third, easily attacking the near post to finish off passes. His awareness allows him to scan the pitch with ease, providing true poacher's instincts.
Lebohang Maboe (Chiefs) v Marcelo Allende (Sundowns)
Maboe hosts his former colleagues at the Calabash and is expected to stand out by controlling the engine room with aplomb. He must continue acting as the link between defence and attack, ensuring smooth fluidity in and out of possession.
Maboe will have to be at his best against Allende. The Sundowns anchorman has been the brain behind the team’s strides, holding the fort in the absence of the injured Teboho Mokoena and following the tragic loss of Jayden Adams. He must showcase his seamless transitional play against Chiefs.
Langelihle Phili (Chiefs) v Khuliso Mudau (Sundowns)
Phili had an impressive first start for the club against Sekhukhune United, bagging the Player of the Match award. He must build on that momentum against Sundowns, finding the right spaces and running between the lines to help the team move forward.
Phili’s character will be tested against Mudau, who is one of the best right-backs on the continent. Mudau makes timely tackles and easily assists in transition, adding extra firepower in the final third.