Mamelodi Sundowns return to Betway Premiership action on Wednesday evening knowing that anything less than victory against Milford FC at Loftus Versfeld could leave them facing an uphill battle in the early title race.
The Brazilians welcome the newcomers at 7.30pm with the pressure intensified by Orlando Pirates’ emphatic 4-0 victory over Kruger United on Tuesday. That result lifted the defending champions to 13 points, with a superior +11 goal difference, after five matches.Â
Sundowns, meanwhile, sit second on 10 points and a +6 goal difference, meaning they need a convincing victory to close the gap.
A 6-0 victory would be enough to take the Chlorokop based side above the Soweto giants on goal difference, assuming the Brazilians move to 13 points.Â
Anything less would leave Pirates in control of top spot, although Sundowns would still have the opportunity to remain within touching distance of the Sea Robbers.
Milford no pushovers
Despite being newcomers to the top flight, and they have already shown that they cannot be taken lightly.
The KwaZulu-Natal side have collected points early in their debut campaign and will arrive in Pretoria determined to frustrate the reigning champions. Milford’s league campaign began with a 2-0 defeat to Pirates, but they subsequently recorded a 1-0 victory over Siwelele.
For Sundowns, the danger is that Milford have little to lose. The visitors can sit deep, absorb pressure and look for opportunities on the counter-attack, while Sundowns will be expected to control possession and create the majority of the chances.
The match also presents another opportunity for Miguel Cardoso’s side to demonstrate why they remain one of the favourites to retain the league title.