By Michael Madyira
A thrilling conclusion to the 2023-24 Premier Soccer League season is expected on Saturday.
It is a decisive day, with the top-two showdown being the major highlight. Stellenbosch and Orlando Pirates have taken the race to claim a CAF Champions League berth to the wire.
Second-placed Stellenbosch have fate in their hands with a trip to King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium for a date with Richards Bay.
It will be an interesting fixture. Richards Bay is 15th on the table and needs to move just one place up to avoid the relegation/promotion play-offs.
But their Cape Winelands visitors are looking for maximum points to stay safe and not worry about Orlando Pirates’ home result against tricky SuperSport United.
The Buccaneers are third on the table, just a point behind Stellies, and are keen on victory while praying for the Maroons to drop points.
As Pirates desperately need a win, their opponents, SuperSport, who are in position five, are also pursuing three points to claim a top-four finish.
However, Matsatsantsa’s achievement of their target largely depends on fourth-placed TS Galaxy – who have a point more – dropping points away at Polokwane City.
At position six, Sekhukhune also have their eyes set on a top-four finish with a visit to Chippa United.
Champions Mamelodi Sundowns will be the Invincibles if they complete the campaign unbeaten should they avoid defeat at home to Cape Town City.
Kaizer Chiefs’ bid for a top-eight finish following a difficult season will also highlight the climatic final day.
Luckily for Amakhosi, destiny is in their hands. They just need to beat the already-relegated Cape Town Spurs at Cape Town Stadium.
AmaZulu, Polokwane City, Golden Arrows, and Chippa United are below Chiefs and within a chance of securing an MTN8 spot next season.
Joining Richards Bay in attempting to dodge the play-offs are Royal AM, who are 14th on the standings and will be away at Dobsonville Stadium to face Moroka Swallows.
Pictured above: Stellenbosch midfielder Sihle Nduli tries to stop Orlando Pirates winger Monnapule Saleng.
Image source: Orlando Pirates
