Sundowns vs Maniema Union – Mamelodi Sundowns are determined to shake off the disappointment of their Carling Knockout loss to Magesi and focus on their CAF Champions League opener. The match against Congolese side AS Maniema Union will take place on Tuesday evening at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria. Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the clash.
Sundowns vs Maniema Union: Kick-Off
- Date: Tuesday, 26 November 2024
- Kick-off: 18:00
- Venue: Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria, South Africa
- Broadcast: Live on SABC 2, DStv’s SuperSport TV Channel 209, and radio stations; stream on DStv Stream and SABC+.
Previous Head-to-Head
This will be the first encounter between Mamelodi Sundowns and AS Maniema Union in the CAF Champions League.
Recent Form
Mamelodi Sundowns:
- 24/11/2024: Magesi 2 – 1 Sundowns
- 10/11/2024: Marumo Gallants 0 – 2 Sundowns
- 06/11/2024: Sundowns 2 – 0 Polokwane City
- 02/11/2024: Kaizer Chiefs 0 – 4 Sundowns
- 30/11/2024: Sundowns 3 – 0 Cape Town City
AS Maniema Union:
- 20/11/2024: Celetse 0 – 1 Maniema
- 10/11/2024: Maniema 3 – 0 Renaissance
- 06/11/2024: Dauphins Noirs 0 – 1 Maniema
- 26/10/2024: Maniema 3 – 1 AS Vita Club
- 17/10/2024: Motema Pembe 1 – 1 Maniema
Players to Look Out For
Manqoba Mngqithi is expected to make several changes to his lineup following the 2-1 defeat to Magesi. Teboho Mokoena and Lucas Ribeiro will likely be central to Sundowns’ midfield, while the attacking trio of Peter Shalulile, Iqraam Rayners, and recent standout performances from Shalulile will be pivotal for scoring opportunities.
Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams is also crucial for Sundowns, with Mngqithi hoping for a clean sheet at home.
Loftus Versfeld Stadium
Loftus Versfeld has long been a fortress for Sundowns, with the team winning 13 out of 15 league matches here last season. This 2010 FIFA World Cup venue is also known for hosting significant events like the 2023 African Football League final and multiple Currie Cup finals.
Betting Odds
| Betting Option | Odds |
|---|---|
| Sundowns to Win | 3/10 |
| Draw | 33/10 |
| Maniema to Win | 17/2 |
| Sundowns to Win by 1 Goal | 7/2 |
| Sundowns to Win by 2+ Goals | 5/2 |
| Both Teams to Score | 11/10 |
| Over 2.5 Goals | 5/4 |
| Under 2.5 Goals | 7/10 |
Betting Tips
- Sundowns Victory: With the home advantage at Loftus Versfeld and their strong CAF Champions League form, Sundowns are favorites to win. Their record here makes them a solid bet for the victory.
- Over 2.5 Goals: Sundowns’ attacking strength, led by Peter Shalulile, combined with Maniema’s ability to score, suggests this game could feature more than two goals.
- Both Teams to Score: With Maniema having shown solid attacking form, especially in recent fixtures, both teams finding the back of the net is a real possibility.
Predicted Starting Line-up
- Formation: 4-3-3
- Goalkeeper: Ronwen Williams
- Defenders: Aubrey Modiba, Mosa Lebusa, Rushine de Reuck, Thapelo Morena
- Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Lucas Ribeiro, Andile Jali
- Forwards: Peter Shalulile, Iqraam Rayners, Neo Maema
Conclusion
Mamelodi Sundowns enter this match as heavy favorites, with the home advantage at Loftus Versfeld. After their tough loss to Magesi, they will be eager to bounce back and get their CAF Champions League campaign off to a strong start against a competitive AS Maniema Union side. Expect Sundowns to dominate possession and pressure the visitors early in this crucial group-stage encounter.
Related article: Magesi vs Sundowns – Magesi Stun Sundowns with a Historic Carling Knockout Cup Victory
