Predicting Mamelodi Sundowns XI to face Chippa United in a PSL clash - Will Cardoso change his winning formula?

With the league nearing its climax, Masandawana look to finish strong and shift focus to the continent—but must first cool off the Chilli Boys.

Mamelodi Sundowns welcome Chippa United to Loftus Versfeld Stadium in a much-anticipated clash.

This will be the first meeting between the two sides this season due to earlier postponements.

Masandawana are just a few points away from securing their eighth consecutive league title, a feat that would further cement their dominance in South African football.

Chippa United, on the other hand, are desperate to bounce back after two successive defeats.

The Eastern Cape outfit are fighting to secure a top-eight finish and will be hoping to upset the champions-elect.

Both teams have plenty to play for, setting up a high-stakes encounter in Pretoria.

Here, GOAL picks Sundowns' first-choice XIand forecasts how Miguel Cardoso is likely to line up his team against the Chilli Boys.

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GOALKEEPER: Ronwen Williams
A proven shot-stopper and vocal leader from the back, he commands his box with authority and initiates attacks with precise, long-range distribution, making him essential in both defence and build-up play.

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RIGHT-BACK: Khuliso Mudau
A relentless engine down the right flank, Mudau blends blistering pace with defensive grit and attacking prowess, consistently troubling opposition wingers and delivering quality balls into the box.
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LEFT-BACK: Aubrey Modiba
A versatile left-sided player with an eye for goal and an excellent delivery, Modiba’s work rate, tactical flexibility, and crossing ability make him a valuable asset in both attack and defence.

CENTRE-BACK: Malibongwe Khoza
Calm under pressure and tactically astute, the youngster offers composure in defence, anticipating danger before it develops and providing a solid platform for the team to build from the back.
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CENTRE-BACK: Grant Kekana
An experienced campaigner who thrives in high-pressure moments, very dependable in aerial duels, one-on-one situations, and brings a no-nonsense approach that anchors the defensive line.
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CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Teboho Mokoena
The heartbeat of the midfield, the Bafana international dictates tempo, breaks up opposition play, and delivers pinpoint passes, often turning defence into attack with his vision and range.
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CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Marcelo Allende
A technical maestro with a low centre of gravity, Allende finds pockets of space, threads dangerous passes, and connects midfield and attack with creativity and intelligence.
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ATTACKING MIDFIELDER: Jayden Adams
Young but fearless, he injects urgency and flair in midfield duels, pressing opponents high, winning second balls, and adding a spark that can shift the momentum in tight matches.
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RIGHT ATTACKER: Tashreeq Matthews
A dynamic attacker with pace to burn, he stretches defences with his movement, creates space for teammates, and isn’t afraid to take on defenders or shoot from distance.
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LEFT ATTACKER: Lucas Ribeiro
Smooth on the ball and clinical in front of goal, the attacker adds a touch of class with his dribbling and decision-making, capable of turning a game with a single moment of brilliance.
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CENTRE-FORWARD: Peter Shalulile
The epitome of a modern striker, "Shasha" combines tireless work ethic, lethal finishing, and clever positioning to consistently lead the scoring charts and harass backlines.