Orlando Pirates v Mamelodi Sundowns: Five key players to watch in title clash

Many seasons have come and gone with teams attempting to unseat Mamelodi Sundowns from their domestic throne, yet few have mounted as serious a challenge in recent years as Orlando Pirates. 

Their looming showdown at FNB Stadium this Wednesday (7.30pm kick-off) could provide the clearest indication yet of where this season’s league crown is ultimately headed.

While the campaign has only reached its halfway mark — and plenty of twists may still lie ahead in what has been a markedly improved season compared to the last — the stakes extend beyond just three points. A misstep on the night could shift momentum significantly in the title race.

Sundowns will be banking on it being third time lucky. The sides have already met twice this season, with both encounters ending 1-1. Those stalemates proved costly for Miguel Cardoso’s men, resulting in dropped ground in the league race and elimination from the MTN8 — a competition Pirates went on to lift.

This time, Pirates step away from their traditional fortress, the Amstel Orlando Arena, but they will draw confidence from last season’s 2-1 victory over the Brazilians at FNB Stadium — a result that slightly disrupted Sundowns’ title charge. They now arrive boasting an impressive 14-match unbeaten run in the league and will be eager to build on that momentum.

With so much riding on the contest at this relatively early stage of the season, the outcome could prove pivotal. Here are five key players who could shape the clash:

Brayan Leon

The phrase “fits like a glove” is often overused, but in the case of the lively Colombian forward it feels entirely appropriate. Leon has wasted little time stamping his authority, cementing a place in the starting line-up and underlining his importance to Sundowns’ ambitions.

With four goals in six matches, the 25-year-old striker thrives in high-pressure encounters. Against the league’s most formidable defensive unit, he will relish another stern examination.

Relebohile Mofokeng

Peaking at just the right time for coach Abdeslam Ouaddou — and perhaps the worst time for Sundowns — Mofokeng remains a constant threat. He tormented the Brazilians in their previous meeting in this fixture, scoring twice to seal a 2-1 victory.

Currently in scintillating form and brimming with confidence, he has the ability to create moments out of nowhere and he will be giving his upcoming opponents sleepless nights ahead of the match.

Arthur Sales

The Brazilian attacker entered the season under significant pressure, especially following the departure of Lucas Ribeiro Costa. Expectations only intensified, but he has responded admirably.

With six goals and three assists to his name this season, he has quickly established himself as a vital cog in Cardoso’s setup. Capable of both creating and converting chances, he possesses the quality to turn the match on its head and will be a man to watch closely.

Yanela Mbuthuma

Pirates’ attacking cohesion has improved steadily, and Mbuthuma’s growing understanding with his teammates has been central to that progress. His tireless work rate has earned him a consistent starting role, and he is increasingly showing the instincts of a natural finisher.

With two goals in his last three league outings, the former Richards Bay FC striker will be eager to continue his bright start in Pirates colours.

Oswin Appollis

The former Polokwane City midfielder has arguably been one of the most consistent performers this season. This high-profile encounter offers him the perfect stage to demonstrate his influence against elite opposition.

Should Appollis impose himself in midfield and dictate the tempo, Pirates may well tilt the balance in their favour on what promises to be a defining night in the title race.