Mamelodi Sundowns will look to remain top of the DStv Premiership log heading into 2021 when they face Golden Arrows at the Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium on Saturday, 19 December.
Kick-off is at 15:30.
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Both Sundowns and Golden Arrows are unbeaten so far this season after seven matches.
However, while Sundowns boast 17 points and are top of the standings, Abafana Bes’thende are in sixth place – and six points behind their rivals.
The reason for the wide gap is due to the fact that while Sundowns have won five and drawn two matches, Arrows have won two and drawn five to date.
HEAD-TO-HEAD STATS
In head-to-head stats, Sundowns and Arrows and have met in 38 league matches since 2000/01.
Sundowns have been victorious on 20 occasions compared to 10 for Abafana Bes’thende, while eight matches have been drawn.
Last season Arrows claimed a 3-2 home win in the teams’ league meeting at the Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium, but Sundowns had their revenge with a 1-0 victory in the return game at Dobsonville Stadium.
KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH
GOLDEN ARROWS
Trevor Mathiane – The Golden Arrows skipper put in a strong showing in the midweek derby against AmaZulu and not only helped his team keep a clean sheet for the first time this season, but also led them to a morale-boosting win.
Velemseni Ndwandwe – The attacker scored a fantastic goal to seal Arrows’ win against AmaZulu in midweek. His movement and pace running in behind the defence could prove a major bother for Sundowns come Saturday.
MAMELODI SUNDOWNS
Themba Zwane – The reigning player of the year continues to underline his class and consistency with top performances week in and week out. Expect the attacking midfielder to bring his incisive game to Durban and make life difficult for Arrows’ defence.
Andile Jali – Arrows will look to stretch the play and bypass Sundowns’ midfield whenever possible, which will make Jali’s job all about discipline, positioning and mobility, as he looks to ensure that the Brazilians boss the engine room come Saturday afternoon.
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