Starting XI: Pirates v Sundowns

Photo by Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images

Betway Premiership leaders Orlando Pirates lock horns with Mamelodi Sundowns in a top-of-the-table clash at FNB Stadium this evening.

Betway Premiership

Teams: Orlando Pirates v Mamelodi Sundowns

Date: 18 February 2026

Venue: FNB Stadium

The Buccaneers opened a six-point lead at the top of the table on Saturday after defeating Marumo Gallants at the Orlando Amstel Arena.

The Soweto giants have been the best defensive team in the league this season, having conceded the least amount of goals (7) while they have kept clean sheets in their last six league encounters.

Sundowns, meanwhile, were involved in CAF Champions League action over the weekend as they defeated MC Alger to book their spot in the quarter-finals.

The Brazilians were last involved Premiership action at the end of January when they defeated Sekhukhune United 2-0.

Here’s how they line up:

Orlando Pirates: 24. Chaine, 33. Seema, 5. Sibisi, 7. Hotto, 36. Sebelebele, 8. Makhaula, 15. Nemtajela, 28. Maswanganyi, 38. Mofokeng, 12. Appollis, 9. Mbuthuma

Subs: 35. Buthelezi, 43. Chabatsane, 3. Ndaba, 21. Van Rooyen, 23. Mbule, 32. Mariko, 11. Moremi, 45. Msendami, 14. De Jong

Mamelodi Sundowns: 30. Williams, 25. Mudau, 3. Ndamane, 20. Kekana, 27. Morena, 6. Modiba, 4. Mokoena, 8. Adams, 10. Santos, 17. Matthews, 12. Leon

Subs: 1. Onyango, 37. Johannes, 29. Lunga, 7. Reisinho, 11. Allende, 18. Zwane, 43. Letlhaku, 35. Mothiba, 38. Shalulile

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