Mamelodi Sundowns suffer setback ahead of Pirates clash | OneFootball

Downs dealt with blow for Pirates tie

Photo: Mamelodi Sundowns players

Mamelodi Sundowns have been dealt with a major setback ahead of their Betway Premiership top-of-the-table clash against Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium on Wednesday (19h30).

The defending champions head into the match looking to narrow the gap on the Buccaneers, who are six points clear at the summit, having amassed 38 points in 16 matches.

However, Abdeslam Ouaddou's men have played one game more than Miguel Cardoso's troops, who were fulfilling their CAF Champions League commitments.

Now, with the match looming, Sundowns will be without the reliable services of Bathusi Aubaas, who will be serving a one-match suspension.

The Bafana international picked up his fourth yellow card of the campaign in the Nedbank Cup Round of 32 win over minnows Gomora United earlier this month.

Meanwhile, Pirates have no suspension concerns, but defenders Tapelo Xoki and Thabiso Lebitso are not available for selection as they continue to nurse their respective injuries.

Having played to a one-all draw in the first meeting in the capital in November 2025, the stakes are even higher, and it remains to be seen who will clinch maximum points.