Fresh off Saturday's Soweto Derby win over Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates face another important Betway Premiership fixture as they visit Sekhukhune United on Wednesday February 5.
After Pirates beat Chiefs 1-0, head coach José Riveiro alluded in his press conference that last season, Mamelodi Sundowns amassed 73 points out of a possible 90 - a league record in a 30-game season. Therefore, every game is a must-win fixture for any team looking to challenge the Brazilians' dominance.
Riveiro is likely to rotate his team for Sekhukhune in order to preserve freshness ahead of the clash with Sundowns on February 8. However, with Pirates having lost on their last two visits, they will know that Sekhukhune cannot be taken for granted.
Despite their inconsistent form lately, Babina Noko have had an impressive season and proven that their fourth-placed finish in the last campaign was no fluke. They once again lie in fourth place this season and will be looking to secure third place and a passage to the CAF Confederation Cup.
Another upset against Pirates would go a long way towards helping Sekhukhune get back on track. However, this is a far more settled Buccaneers side than the one they beat 2-1 in March.
READ: Who are Sekhukhune United, and how are they challenging the PSL's Big Three?
Key details:
Date: Wednesday, Feb 5 at 7:30 PM CAT (5:30 PM GMT, 12:30 PM ET)
Venue: Old Peter Mokaba Stadium
How to watch: The match is available on SuperSport
Team news:
Sekhukhune will be without suspended midfield duo Siphesihle Mkhize and Relebogile Mokhuoane. Meanwhile, Pirates are still awaiting the return of Goodman Mosele, Zakhele Lepasa, Olisa Ndah and Thabiso Monyane from injury.
Expected lineups:
Sekhukhune United
GK Badra Ali Sangaré
LB Ngoanamello Rammala | CB Katlego Mohamme | CB Daniel Cardoso | RB Katlego Mkhabela
CM Linda Mntambo | CM Thabang Monare
LW Katlego Otladisa | AM Sipho Mbule | RW Keletso Makgalwa
ST Andy Bobwa Boyeli
Orlando Pirates
GK Sipho Chaine
LB Paseka Mako | CB Nkosinathi Sibisi | CB Thabiso Sesane | RB Deano van Rooyen
CM Thalente Mbatha | CM Makhehlene Makhaula
LW Relebohile Mofokeng | AM Patrick Maswanganyi | RW Mohau Nkota
Stats:
Orlando Pirates have won seven of their last eight fixtures in all competitions.
Sekhukhune have won both of their previous home games against Orlando Pirates.
Patrick Maswanganyi has scored three goals in his last two games in all competitions.