Predicting Mamelodi Sundowns' XI to face Orlando Pirates

The Sundowns captain has been struggling for form lately having conceded three goals in his last three league games and he also got a red card against Sekhukhune United a few weeks ago.

Onyango knows he will have to bring his A-game when he faces the Buccaneers, who have scored in each of their last three games.

The Randfontein-born full-back has been enjoying regular game time with fellow right-back Khuliso Mudau out due to injury.

Morena grabbed an assist against Baroka FC on Tuesday and he will be hoping to become a threat to the Bucs defence with his usual powerful overlapping runs.

The experienced left-back has been re-cemented in Downs' starting line-up with some great performances in recent weeks.

Lakay, who scored with a wonderful free-kick against Pirates last season, will pose a threat to the Buccaneers from set-pieces.

The Bafana Bafana international was at fault when Richard Mbulu scored against Sundowns in midweek as he was easily beaten by the Malawian hitman.

De Reuck might retain his place in the starting line-up with Mosa Lebusa out injured, while Ricardo Nascimento is yet to regain his full match fitness after recovering from long-term injury.

The University of Pretoria academy product has arguably been Sundowns' most consistent defender this season.

Kekana is likely to be assigned to man-mark Pirates' centre forward Kwame Peprah, who tends to use his big physique to harass opposing defenders.

The talented holding midfielder is oozing with confidence at the moment having scored his maiden goal of the season against Baroka.

Coetzee, who has overcome his recent injury woes, will be hoping to continue his good form against Pirates.

The 31-year-old midfielder will be looking forward to facing his former side having re-established himself as one of the best central midfielders in the PSL.

The man nicknamed Mhlekazi (Your Excellency) could go head to head with Goodman Mosele in an interesting midfield battle between two hard-tackling midfielders.

The two-time PSL Midfielder of the Season has blown hot and cold this season, but scoring a late winning goal against Baroka has boosted his confidence.

On his day, Zwane is one of the best-attacking midfielders to have ever graced the PSL and he could be key to a Downs win over Bucs.

The highly-rated attacker has struggled to regain the form which saw him attract concrete interest from Egyptian football powerhouse Al Ahly.

Sirino might be recalled to the starting line-up with Thabiso Kutumela unavailable for selection due to injury.

The left-footed attacker has adapted quickly to Sundowns' style of play having scored three goals and provided five assists in the league.

This will be an opportunity for Maema to show that he can also deliver in a big match with Downs set to start their Caf Champions League group stage campaign next year.

The Slovakian frontman could lead the attack for Masandawana with Kermit Erasmus suspended and Peter Shalulile an injury doubt.

Safranko, who replaced Shalulile against Baroka as a substitute, has failed to score in his last seven league games and he will be eager to end his goal drought.