Kenley Ward
Dailysports's expert
On Wednesday, May 14, in a rescheduled match of the 30th round of the South African Premier League, Mamelodi Sundowns will face Chippa United away from home. I am backing a winner in this encounter.
Key facts and head-to-head history
- Chippa United are winless in their last 5 matches.
- Chippa United have failed to score in their last 5 matches.
- Mamelodi Sundowns have won 4 consecutive Premier League games without conceding a single goal.
- In round 9 this season, Mamelodi Sundowns defeated Chippa United 3-0.
Match preview
Chippa United have virtually nothing left to play for this season. The Eastern Cape side sits eighth with 30 points, and in their two remaining Premier League fixtures, Thabo September’s team cannot realistically improve their position.
Chippa United approach the clash with Mamelodi Sundowns in their worst form of the season. The “Chilli Boys” are winless in five league outings and have failed to find the net in all of them. In their last game, they lost 0-3 to Mamelodi Sundowns, following previous defeats of 0-2 to SuperSport United and 0-1 against Stellenbosch.
Mamelodi Sundowns are on the brink of their 15th league title in club history. But Miguel Cardoso’s side have not sealed it just yet. With 67 points, Sundowns top the table, 15 clear of Orlando Pirates, but their rivals have three games in hand.
In their last match, Mamelodi Sundowns thrashed Stellenbosch (3-0), having previously beaten Chippa United by the same scoreline, Cape Town City (2-0), and Richards Bay (3-0).
Mamelodi Sundowns are also preparing for the CAF Champions League final against Egypt’s Pyramids, set for May 24. In the semifinals, the South African champions knocked out Al Ahly on away goals.
Probable lineups
- Chippa United: Stanley, Sithole, Chabalala, Makhele, Madingwane, Modise, Konkobe, Thiongwana, Martin, Kwaiba, Ndlovu
- Mamelodi Sundowns: Williams, Morena, Kekana, Lebusa, Modiba, Mokoena, Costa, Allende, Matthews, Sales, Reyners
Chippa United vs Mamelodi Sundowns prediction
The teams are operating on completely different levels at the moment. I don't see how Chippa United can challenge the strongest team in the country, so my pick is a win for the visitors.
