Unbeaten Mamelodi Sundowns target continued success against in-form Durban City

As Mamelodi Sundowns prepare to host Durban City on Saturday, the reigning Premiership champions are keen to capitalise on their home advantage at the Lucas Moripe Stadium, Tshwane.

However, standing in their way is a determined KZN side that has shown promise in the early stages of the Betway Premiership season.

Currently sitting second in the standings, Sundowns have steadily climbed the ladder, recently leapfrogging Kaizer Chiefs. With just a point separating them from log leaders Sekhukhune United — despite having played one match more — Sundowns are poised to put pressure on the frontrunners.

The champions have gone unbeaten in their first seven games of the new season, and their strong form raises expectations that they could secure yet another Premier Soccer League title, their ninth consecutive.

Durban City, who returned to the top tier after winning the National First Division last season, come into this match under the guidance of experienced coach Gavin Hunt. Following a successful midweek victory against Siwelele, the KZN outfit currently rests in a promising fourth position.

However, facing the formidable champions poses a significant challenge, and many teams in the league have found it difficult to secure points against Sundowns in their home territory.

While Sundowns may not have the most prolific attack in the league this season, their defensive record is nothing short of remarkable. In their seven matches, they have conceded just two goals, a statistic that highlights their defensive dominance. At the heart of that defence is Malibongwe Khoza and Keauno Cupido.

Chippa United and Marumo Gallants are the only clubs to have breached Sundowns' defence, resulting in an impressive five clean sheets from their last six games. This level of defensive solidity is no surprise to fans who've followed the club's tradition of strong backline performances.

If history is any guide, Sundowns will aim to extend their impressive home record, which boasts 16 consecutive wins at the PSL stage. With one loss in their last 45 league matches played at home, they have proven to be a daunting opponent for visiting teams.

In contrast, Durban City has struggled in their recent away outings, entering this match winless in their last two road games – a streak they may find hard to break against such seasoned opposition.

“I don't have any emotions when playing Sundowns. In football, I don't have any emotions, win or lose. I try my best to implement (our game plan) as best as I can. That's all we can do. We will have a plan of what we can do and where we can change things,” said Hunt.

Statistically, the match could also be a low-scoring affair. Six of Sundowns' previous seven league games have ended with fewer than three goals, highlighting a tendency towards tighter matches. Similarly, all of Durban City's league engagements have produced fewer than three goals, a trend both teams might look to exploit as they clash this Saturday.

With pressure mounting at both ends of the table, this encounter promises to be a fascinating showdown between champions and challengers. Sundowns aim to continue their unbroken run, while Durban City will want to rise to the occasion and deliver an upset on the champions’ home turf.