Pressure cooker at Loftus: Mamelodi Sundowns aim to stretch lead as Orlando Pirates’ title hopes teeter

MAMELODI Sundowns have a spectacular opportunity to leave Betway Premiership title rivals Orlando Pirates with a greater "points deficit" when they meet Polokwane City in the reverse fixture on Sunday afternoon.

The encounter at Loftus Versfeld Stadium is scheduled for a 3pm kick-off.

Second-placed Pirates will be watching the match from their living rooms with little comfort, crossing their fingers that Sundowns falter and fail to extend the lead to five points.

Currently, Sundowns sit at the summit with 61 points, while Pirates trail on 59. Although Sunday’s match will leave the Buccaneers with a game in hand, a win for the Brazilians would undoubtedly cause "panic stations" for the Soweto side.

Judging by Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso’s post-match comments after their 1-0 victory over Polokwane at Seshego Stadium on Wednesday night, his side will go for the jugular at Loftus.

“We played a wonderful game under the conditions we were provided (on Wednesday night); it was very impressive in terms of focus and player determination. I am so happy for the boys,” said Cardoso.

“We did the job, and we have another game against Polokwane at the weekend. It will surely be another tough one.”

Indeed, Polokwane proved to be stubborn opponents on Wednesday. The only way for Sundowns to secure the full six points from this double-header is to sharpen their approach even further.

Second-placed Pirates return to action on Tuesday with a visit to Stellenbosch FC at Athlone Stadium.

Sundowns are already buoyed by the prospect of a domestic league title and CAF Champions League double. Pirates, on the other hand, are chasing a famous domestic treble, having already secured the MTN8 and Carling Knockout Cup double.