Raphael Durand
Dailysports's expert
One of the fixtures of matchday 30 in the South African Premier Division will take place on Saturday at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, where local side Magesi host Marumo Gallants. Here’s my pick for the outcome of this clash, featuring an attractive odds value.
Match preview
Magesi approach this round with a noticeable sense of momentum — the team has hit form, stringing together an impressive run of three wins and a draw in their last five matches. Despite a recent defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns, the squad displays well-balanced football and looks confident at their home ground, where they’ve already secured six victories this season.
Under coach Owen’s guidance, Magesi place a strong emphasis on organized defending and quick transitions, a formula that’s paid dividends against teams of similar calibre. In the current circumstances, every win is a ticket to mid-table security and an escape from the relegation zone. Given their stability at home and recent positive trend, this match against Marumo Gallants shapes up as a prime opportunity to avenge their first-round defeat. The key for the hosts will be to maintain focus and make the most of their chances.
Marumo Gallants, meanwhile, are also heading into the season’s finale in decent spirits: the team is unbeaten in five matches, having picked up two wins and three draws. However, defensive frailties remain their Achilles’ heel — conceding 38 goals points to persistent issues at the back.
Despite coach Abdeslam’s efforts to spark their attacking play, inconsistency on the road (just 4 wins in 13 away games) continues to raise doubts. In their last outing, the Gallants let a win slip against Chippa United, once again unable to hold onto a lead. That could come back to haunt them against a motivated opponent playing in front of their home fans. If Marumo fail to shore up at the back, their chances for a positive result could drop dramatically.
Probable lineups
- Magesi: Chipezeze, Mokone, Mokone, Makgoga, Abrahams, Darpo, Mekoa, Mashigo, Masegela, Chirambadare
- Marumo Gallants: Akpeyi, Msendami, Rikotso, Sibya, Mabotja, Manaka, Dhludhlu, Nange, Sityole, Mahlatsi, Shai
Match facts and head-to-head
- In the first round, Marumo Gallants took a 3-1 victory
- The over 2.5 goals bet landed in two out of the last five meetings
- Both teams to score has come through in two of the previous five encounters
Prediction
Bookmakers are giving the edge to the hosts here, with odds around 2.45. Our suggestion: back the under 2.0 goals market at 1.70 odds.
