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Bathusi Aubaas, Iqraam Rayners and Lucas Ribeiro, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage
Dumisani Koyana

Predicting Mamelodi Sundowns' XI to face Marumo Gallants – Cardoso set to recall the big boys?

Masandawana have registered two losses in the league and will look to regain their confidence against Gallants in Bloemfontein.

Mamelodi Sundowns recently secured a place in the last eight of the Nedbank Cup, where they will face the winner between Royal AM/Milford and Sekhukhune United.

They earned their spot by defeating Mpheni Home Defenders in the previous round.

Now, their attention shifts back to the league, where they need to bounce back after a disappointing loss to TS Galaxy.

With Orlando Pirates closing in, Sundowns must collect maximum points to maintain their lead in the title race.

Coach Miguel Cardoso will be eager to see a strong response from his squad as they aim to regain their winning momentum.

The upcoming fixture is a crucial test of their character and determination in the league campaign.

Here, GOAL picks Masandwana first XI and forecasts how Cardoso is likely to line up his team against Marumo Gallants.

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  • Ronwen Williams, Mamelodi Sundowns, January 2025.BackPagePix

    GOALKEEPER: Ronwen Williams

    After being rested in the Nedbank Cup last-16 clash, the Bafana Bafana international should return to the starting lineup.

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  • Thapelo Morena, Mamelodi Sundowns

    RIGHT-BACK: Thapelo Morena

    With Khuliso Mudau unavailable, he has stepped up and delivered solid performances at right-back.

  • Aubrey Modiba, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

    LEFT-BACK: Aubrey Modiba

    A versatile wingback who can also drift into midfield to offer additional attacking options. Modiba could be the choice for Cardoso for this clash.

  • Grant Kekana, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

    CENTRE-BACK: Grant Kekana

    Rested in the Cup game, the reliable defender brings stability and composure at the back.

  • Lucas Suarez, Mamelodi Sundowns, February 2025Backpagepix

    CENTRE-BACK: Lucas Suarez

    Since arriving, he has impressed with his ability to play out from the back and dictate build-up play.

  • Teboho Mokoena, Mamelodi Sundowns vs RajaBackpage

    CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Teboho Mokoena

    The experienced midfielder came on as a second-half substitute in the Nedbank Cup, and his aggressive play and crisp passing will be crucial.

  • Menzi Masuku, Golden Arrows & Marcello Allende, Mamelodi Sundowns, October 2024BackPagePix

    CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Marcelo Allende

    The diminutive star was not in the squad for the Cup game but is a dynamic midfielder who creates scoring chances.

  • Jayden Adams, Mamelodi Sundowns, February 2025.BackPagePix

    ATTACKING MIDFIELDER: Jayden Adams

    Since joining from Stellenbosch, Adams has settled well, already scoring and controlling the midfield tempo.

  • Qobolwakhe Sibande, TS Galaxy & Lucas Ribeiro Costa, Mamelodi Sundowns, February 2025Backpagepix

    RIGHT ATTACKER: Lucas Ribeiro

    An unused sub in the last game, he has been one of the standout players in the league this season and should return.

  • Iqraam Rayners, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

    LEFT ATTACKER: Iqraam Rayners

    A pacey forward who thrives in transition, making him a key outlet in quick attacking moves.

  • Peter Shalulile, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

    CENTRE-FORWARD: Peter Shalulile

    A proven goal scorer with relentless pressing ability, constantly putting defenders under pressure.