Orlando Pirates starting XI vs Mamelodi Sundowns - Erasmus benched, Ndlondlo debuts

He has been consistently trusted during the league matches and, given the stakes the match carries, Ofori is maintained within the goal posts.

Shandu returns to the starting XI as Thabiso Monyane is ruled out by an injury.

He has coped well with a change of formation under Riveiro, and the Namibian will operate at left-back once more.

The skipper is involved as a starter just after returning from Bafana Bafana duty.

Ndah started on the bench before he replaced Tapelo Xoki against Galaxy, but has been drafted as a first-teamer for the MTN8 duel.

Sibisi has established himself as a solid defensive wall for Pirates and is expected to be on top of his game as he faces the league champions.

Another star who has never looked back since Riveiro started using him as a regular starter in deep midfield.

As he comes up against arguably the best midfielders in the league, led by Andile Jali, Mosele has a huge task of making sure Pirates remain solid at the heart of the midfield throughout.

The deadline-day signing from Marumo Gallants has been handed his debut to face the Brazilians.

Saleng starts on the right wing as Kabelo Dlamini is benched.

The Bafana striker will lead attacks for the Sea Robbers as they host the Tshwane giants, and the brace against Galaxy should motivate the 25-year-old.