Orlando Pirates vs Mamelodi Sundowns Predictions & Tips - Formidable Downs to beat Bucs once again

Mamelodi Sundowns hold a 16-14 advantage after 40 meetings with 11 draws against Orlando Pirates.

Their last meeting was in May as Sundowns won 3-0 at Pirates.

After losing their first match of this season, coach Josef Zinnbauer was sacked. Co-caretaker coaches Fadlu Davids and Mandla Ncikazi have overseen a four match unbeaten run.

A credible 2-2 draw with Stellenbosch with ten men saw the side twice come from losing positions. A dull 0-0 draw at Marumo Gallants followed before a late goal brought a 1-0 victory against Swallows.

Their last match saw the side come back from 1-0 down at Chippa United to win 3-1. Tshegofatso Mabasa, Abel Mabaso and Goodman Mosele scored the goals.

Pirates are set to be without striker Zakhele Lepasa and goalkeeper Richard Ofori due to injury.

Star attacking midfielder Thembinkosi Lorch is out injured long-term. Deon Hotto should be recalled down the wing in place of Kabelo Dlamini.

Sundowns are in imperious form with 24 clean sheets in their last 35 PSL matches and just one defeat. A 0-0 draw with ultra-defensive Chippa United saw them limit their opponents to no shots.

A 1-1 draw in the MTN8 cup came next as Sundowns mustered 2.0 xG more than their opponents. That was followed by winning 2-0 against Kaizer Chiefs.

Their last match saw a 3-0 win against TS Galaxy after going into half-time at 0-0. Mosa Lebusa, Peter Shalulile and Thabiso Kutumela scored the goals.

Sundowns have injury doubts over right backs Khuliso Mudau and Thapelo Morena so Grant Kekana could play in that role.

Midfielders Mothobi Mvala and Lebohang Maboe are both out injured. Kermit Erasmus could start up front once again.