Predicting Sundowns' XI to face AS FAR in the Caf Champions League: After his brace in the DRC, does Miguel Cardoso start Peter Shalulile?

It is a must-win game for Miguel Cardoso and his side, as they need a victory against group leaders AS FAR to qualify.

Mamelodi Sundowns have had an interesting group-stage campaign, managing two wins, two draws, and one loss.

Their style of play has not been entirely convincing, but since Miguel Cardoso's arrival, a new mentality has been instilled, and now they need nothing less than a draw to qualify for the knockout stages.

On the other hand, AS FAR have already qualified and will travel to Loftus Versfeld Stadium on January 19, 2025, looking to solidify their place in the last eight while maintaining their unbeaten record in the group stages.

Masandawana enter this game with confidence after a gutsy comeback against AS Maniema, with Peter Shalulile's brace being the highlight.

AS FAR played to a draw against Raja Casablanca in matchday five and will be keen to secure a win, after a 1-1 draw in their last encounter in December.

Here, GOAL predicts the first-choice XI and forecasts how Cardoso is likely to line up his team against AS FAR.

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GOALKEEPER: Ronwen Williams
A first-choice starter for Masandawana, his calmness on the ball, ability to initiate play from the back, and his shot-stopping ability make him a key figure.

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RIGHT-BACK: Khuliso Mudau
After missing the last game due to suspension, the Bafana Bafana international will be vital on the right-hand side, offering both attacking options and defensive solidity.
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LEFT-BACK: Aubrey Modiba
After not being in the matchday squad in the previous game, his return is necessary as he provides attacking options and can tuck into the middle of the park to get into goalscoring opportunities.

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CENTRE-BACK: Grant Kekana
He had an average game in the DRC and will be looking to rectify his mistakes and prove why he is one of the best defenders in the country.
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CENTRE-BACK: Mosa Lebusa
He had a great game against Maniema, and his ability in aerial duels and balance in the defence will be crucial.
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CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Teboho Mokoena
While he has been average in this campaign, he remains a vital part of the squad, and his role in marshalling the midfield will be essential in this game.
Mamelodi Sundowns
CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Marcelo Allende
The nippy midfielder can control the tempo of the game and has a great eye for finding spaces behind the opposition’s last line of defence.
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ATTACKING MIDFIELDER: Sphelele Mkhulise
Although he hasn’t started many games, he was included in the starting XI last time and performed well, earning his place in the team for this one.
Mamelodi Sundowns
RIGHT ATTACKER: Lucas Ribeiro
One of the most creative players Sundowns has, capable of both assisting and scoring goals, and needs to be on his toes on Sunday.
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LEFT ATTACKER: Iqraam Rayners
He has been a key goalscorer for Cardoso and will be looking to add to his tally.
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CENTRE-FORWARD: Peter Shalulile
The two-goal hero in the last game could start and continue his scoring form.