Mamelodi Sundowns are back in Betway Premiership action tonight, and Miguel Cardoso has truly shaken things up in the first league match after the Africa Cup of Nations break.
The champions have confirmed a starting XI packed with surprises for their clash against Orbit College at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, with kick-off set for 19:30.
DEBUT FOR MAMELODI SUNDOWNS YOUNGSTER THATO SIBIYA
The biggest headline from the team news is the official debut of 19-year-old left-back Thato Sibiya. It is a bold call from Cardoso, especially in a league match where points are crucial, but it also underlines Sundowns’ confidence in their young talent.
There are notable changes in central defence too, with Keagan Johannes drafted in, while the midfield sees a new-look pairing of Sphelele Mkhulise and Jayden Adams.
Masandawana begin the night sitting second on the table, just two points behind leaders Orlando Pirates, meaning there is very little margin for error as the title race resumes.
Kabo Yellow’s new signing, Brayan Leon, starts on the bench, while Khulumani Ndamane and Monnapule Saleng have missed the matchday squad.
Orbit College arrive in Pretoria with their own concerns. The visitors, who have been grinding for results, find themselves just two points above the relegation zone.
The most-talked-about name for Orbit, known as the Mswenko Boys, is Surprise Ralani who is on the bench.
FULL STARTING LINE UPS
Sundowns: Williams, Johannes, Kekana, Morena, Sibiya, Mkhulise, Adams, Letlhaku, Matthews, Sales, Mothiba.
Substitutes: Onyango, Khoza, Mndunyelwa, Basadien, Reisinho, Allende, Zwane, Leon.
Orbit: Chibwe, Mkhabele, Jingana, Mphahlele, Nhlapo, Potsana, Batsi, Mokwena, Ramosala, Modiemong, Malatsi
Substitutes: Lukhele, Ngiba, Mngqibisa, Mahlangu, Mabele, Ralani, Sethodi, Manyedi.
Also read: January Transfers: Pirates and Sundowns signings compared