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Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns set for blockbuster PSL clash

Premier Soccer League

Herman Gibbs|Published

Kaizer Chiefs aim to maintain a perfect league start as they welcome Mamelodi Sundowns to a packed FNB Stadium. Photo: Backpagepix

Image: Backpagepix

The midweek round of the Betway Premiership brings Mzansi’s football fans to one of the most highly anticipated fixtures in the PSL, as Kaizer Chiefs prepare to host Mamelodi Sundowns at the FNB Stadium on Tuesday.

As the reigning champions take on their historic rivals, fans are bracing for what promises to be a thrilling encounter.

With Tunisian coach Nasreddine Nabi expected to return to the sidelines, Chiefs supporters are eager to see how his strategies may differ from those employed by his assistant, Khalil Ben Youssef, who has led the team to a flawless start this season.

Holding onto a perfect three-in-three record in the Premiership, Chiefs have not only won all their matches so far but have also kept clean sheets, a feat that will surely boost their morale ahead of the crucial tie against Sundowns.

In preparation for the clash, Nabi has been urged to draw inspiration from rivals Orlando Pirates, who managed to unsettle Sundowns twice in the MTN8 semi-finals, earning back-to-back draws. The Pirates adopted a strategy that leveraged speed upfront, most notably from the lightning-quick Kamogelo Sebelebele. Chiefs are likely to emulate this approach against Sundowns.

For Chiefs, the fixture comes with the responsibility of maintaining a perfect league start this season. Facing Sundowns, who have accumulated four points from three matches, the pressure is firmly on Chiefs to retain their momentum.

One key player to watch is Chiefs striker Ashley du Preez, who has developed a habit of scoring against Sundowns. He was instrumental in propelling the team to the Nedbank Cup final last season with a last-minute winner during a tense semi-final. His ability to convert chances could prove decisive in this blockbuster fixture.

On Tuesday, the atmosphere is expected to be electric, with thousands of fans flocking to the 90 000-seater FNB Stadium. Previous encounters between the sides have drawn massive crowds, with tickets for both matches last season selling out entirely. Strong attendance was also recorded in the recent Nedbank Cup semi-final and league encounter, highlighting the passion and dedication of supporters on both sides.

The encounter kicks off at 19:30 on Wednesday. As fans eagerly anticipate the start of the match, both Chiefs and Sundowns know the outcome could have significant ramifications for the season ahead.

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