Sundowns are backed to get off to a winning start at home but I do expect BTTS.
Sundowns Win with Goals
- Mamelodi Sundowns have won 5 of their last 6 matches.
- Mamelodi Sundowns have scored 16 goals in their last 6 matches.
- Al Ahli have lost 3 of their last 6 matches.
- Al Ahli have conceded 10 goals in their last 6 matches.
First Ever Meeting
This is the first-ever clash between these clubs.
Sundowns Five Wins in Six Matches
Sundowns won five matches in a row before drawing their last fixture. They’re into the MTN8 final to be played on 10 October.
Sundowns won 3-2 away at Golden Arrows in the MTN8 semi-final second leg. A 2-0 home win over Milford followed in the league before a 2-1 PSL win at Golden Arrows.
After beating Siwelele 3-0, they need a last-gasp goal to rescue a point last time out. A 1-1 draw at Chippa United came on a poor playing surface as Sundowns struggled to play their usual game.
Three League Defeats in Seven for Al Ahli Coach
After losing three of their first seven Saudi Pro League matches, pressure is cranking up on coach Marino Pušić, who replaced Matthias Jaissle.
After winning his first two league matches, they beat Auckland FC 1-0 in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup. Three defeats followed in the next four league fixtures before a 3-1 win over Al Hazem.
Their last recent match came in the AFC Champions League. They drew 1-1 with Uzbek club Pakhtakor as they outshot their opponents 25-8 in a dominant performance.
Predicted Lineups & News
Mamelodi Sundowns (4-2-3-1): Williams; Morena, Kekana, Ndamane, Basadien; Mokoena, Allende; Ndlovu, Mailula, Matthews; Leon.
Sundowns are without two top defenders in Keanu Cupido and Khuliso Mudua. Thabang Matuludi is in line for a debut at right back after being signed from Polokwane City.
The match comes too soon for playmaker Arthur Sales. Antonio Van Wyk is pushing to start after his late goal in the last match.
Al Ahli (4-2-3-1): Mendy; Baatia, Demiral, Ibanez, Balobaid; Diaby, Masoud; Al-Shamat, Goncalves, Trincao; Toney.
Centre back Roger Ibanez and winger Trincao were rested for the last match. Both will return to the XI for this one.
Ivan Toney will lead the line. He was taken off after 68 minutes in the AFC Champions League match with an eye on this clash.