Mamelodi Sundowns close in on historic title as Chippa test awaits at Loftus
Iqraam Rayners has played a key role in Mamelodi Sundowns' charge to an eighth consecutive title. | BackpagePix
Image: BackpagePix
Mamelodi Sundowns have once again proven their dominance this season and are now on the brink of making history.
They turn their attention to Chippa United as they look to take another step towards yet another league title when the two sides meet at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday evening (kick-off at 7.30pm).
With the title race firmly under their control, the Brazilians are closing in on a record-extending eighth consecutive Betway Premiership crown. They have managed to hold off a determined challenge from Orlando Pirates throughout the 2024/25 campaign.
Pirates' 1-0 defeat to Eric Tinkler's Sekhukhune United last week further complicated their pursuit of the title. That result means their fate now hinges entirely on Sundowns dropping points — a scenario that looks increasingly unlikely given their current form.
The reigning champions currently hold a 12-point lead over the Sea Robbers, although they have played two more matches than the Soweto giants. As they prepare to face a Chilli Boys outfit that has been inconsistent for much of the season, there is still little room for any slip-ups.
Iqraam Rayners has played a key role in recent matches, scoring in Sundowns' 3-0 win over Richards Bay FC and following it up with another goal in their 2-0 victory against Cape Town City. His contributions continue to underline a strong debut season in Sundowns colours since making his move from Stellenbosch FC at the end of last season.
The 29-year-old striker is now just two goals behind teammate Lucas Ribeiro Costa (13) in the race for the league's Golden Boot.
This upcoming fixture is the first of two meetings between Sundowns and Chippa this month, with the reverse leg scheduled for mid-May at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. Last season, Sundowns claimed back-to-back 2-0 victories over the Gqeberha-based side.
Despite their dominance and the significant gap in quality between the teams, Rayners believes Chippa United will pose a challenge and cannot be taken lightly.
'It's always difficult to play against teams at the bottom because they are fighting to get into the top eight,' said Rayners, ahead of their league match.
'Sometimes they are fighting for their lives, but for us it is important to get points and be focused on the next game. It's always good for a team like Chippa United to play against a team like Sundowns; they will always make things difficult for us, but for us it's just to take our game to the next level and get the points.'
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