The stage is set for one of South Africa’s most anticipated football clashes as Kaizer Chiefs host Mamelodi Sundowns in the Betway Premiership at FNB Stadium this afternoon. Millions of supporters across the country, and all over the continent, have been waiting for this moment since the fixture list was released, with two giants of the game ready to lock horns early in the season.

Both sides arrive in strong form after midweek victories. Amakhosi secured a 2-0 win over Sekhukhune United, while Masandawana edged TS Galaxy 3-2 away from home.

This rivalry, dating back to 1983, remains one of the fiercest in South African football. Chiefs hold the historical advantage with 33 wins compared to Sundowns’ 29, alongside 23 draws.

Coach Fernando Da Cruz faces a significant challenge in the left-back position, with all five options sidelined through injury. With this being Chiefs’ third match in six days, squad rotation has been unavoidable. Four changes have been made; debutant Thabo Moloisane replaces the injured Reeve Frosler, Thabiso Monyane returns in place of Dillan Solomons, Siphesihle Ndlovu comes in for Asanele Velebayi, and Pule Mmodi takes the place of Etiosa Ighodaro up front.

Amakhosi will line up in a 4-1-4-1 formation.

Brandon Petersen takes his place as the number 1, and will wear the captain’s armband.

Zitha Kwinika fills in at left-back. Moloisane partners Inacio Miguel in central defence, with Monyane on the right.

Sibongiseni Mthethwa anchors the midfield, supported by Lebohang Maboe and Ndlovu just ahead of him. On the flanks, Mmodi runs on the left and Langelihle Phili will be on the right.

Leading the attack is one of Wednesday’s goalscorers, Luke Baartman.

With history, form, and pride on the line, this afternoon’s encounter promises to deliver another unforgettable chapter in the Chiefs–Sundowns rivalry.

The officiating team is led by referee Jelly Chavani, with Khamusi Raqwimisani and Jantjie Dlamini as his assistants. Cedric Muvhali is the fourth official.

Kick-off for this big Betway Premiership encounter between the Glamour Boys and Bafana ba style is set for 15:00 at FNB Stadium.

Those who are not part of the over 60 000 crowd at the venue can follow the action live on SuperSport’s PSL Channel 202 on DStv and SABC 1, with commentary on SABC radio. Regular updates will be provided on Kaizer Chiefs’ X (formerly Twitter).

Chiefs XI: Petersen © (1), Miguel (84), Kwinika (4), Moloisane (42), Monyane (2), Mthethwa (5), Maboe (6), Ndlovu (8), Mmodi (13), Baartman (11), Phili (70)

Subs: Leaner (16); Solomons (18), Mtasingwa (22), Ngcobo (12), Velebayi (17), Vilakazi (28), Chislett (23), Shabalala (7), Duba (47)

Coach: Fernando Da Cruz

Sundowns XI: Williams © (30); Kekana (20), Johannes (37), Mudau (25), Mkhulise (21), Modiba (6), Aubass (15), van Wyk (29), Allende (11), Matthews (17), Leon (12) 

Subs: Goss (31); Mvala (40), Kekana (44), Lunga (5), Ndlovu (38), Bennet Mokoena (46), Zwane (18), Mailula (33), Mothiba (35)

Coach: Miguel Cardoso