The stage is set at Mbombela Stadium tonight as Mamelodi Sundowns take on TS Galaxy in what promises to be one of the most intriguing fixtures of the early Betway Premiership season.

Kick-off is scheduled for 19:30, with Sundowns looking to begin their league campaign with a statement victory, while Galaxy will be hoping to once again prove that they are a difficult opponent for the reigning South African giants. 

A chance for Sundowns to make a statement

For Sundowns, tonight represents more than just three points.
The Brazilians are beginning their league campaign after their opening fixture against Marumo Gallants was postponed. They also enter the new season determined to reclaim the league crown after Orlando Pirates ended their remarkable run of domestic dominance last season. 

Sundowns arrive with plenty of confidence following their recent MTN8 victory over Polokwane City, but tonight presents a completely different challenge.
The biggest obstacle may be their opponents themselves.

Galaxy have become Sundowns’ nightmare

TS Galaxy have developed a reputation as one of the few teams capable of consistently troubling Sundowns.

The Rockets famously defeated Sundowns 3–2 at Mbombela Stadium in May, a result that dealt a major blow to the Brazilians’ title hopes. Galaxy also defeated Sundowns 2–0 in the Nedbank Cup earlier in the year.

 In fact, despite Sundowns historically dominating the fixture, Galaxy have won three of their last four home meetings against the Brazilians across all competitions.

  That record gives tonight’s encounter an added edge.Sundowns captain Themba Zwane has acknowledged the difficulty of facing Galaxy, insisting that his side must find a way to secure all three points despite knowing how challenging the matchup will be. 

Galaxy looking to upset the champions

Galaxy will enter the match with their own ambitions.

The Rockets began their league campaign with a 2–2 draw against Siwelele, and coach Bernard Parker will be hoping his side can build on that result by producing another strong performance against one of the country’s biggest clubs.

  However, Galaxy face a challenge in goal after goalkeeper Sipho Maseti was sent off in their opening match and is suspended for tonight’s encounter. Ira Tape is expected to deputise.

  The battle to watch

The biggest question tonight will be whether Sundowns’ quality and depth can overcome Galaxy’s physicality, organisation and confidence at home.

Sundowns have the individual quality to dominate possession and create chances, but Galaxy have repeatedly demonstrated that they can frustrate the Brazilians and punish them when opportunities arise.

There is also a potential fitness concern for Sundowns. The Brazilians played a 120-minute MTN8 encounter against Polokwane City on Saturday, meaning Miguel Cardoso could be forced to rotate his squad with another demanding fixture against Kaizer Chiefs coming up on Saturday.