Mamelodi Sundowns need "miracle" to retain Betway Premiership title

The reigning champions face TS Galaxy at Mbombela Stadium tonight with their hopes of a ninth straight league title hanging by the slimmest of margins.

Sundowns remain top of the table, but the title is no longer fully in their hands. Orlando Pirates sit three points behind with a game in hand and a far superior goal difference, leaving Miguel Cardoso's side needing an extraordinary result to stay ahead in the race.

For Sundowns to retain the crown, they would likely need to beat Galaxy by a huge margin while hoping Pirates fail to score freely in their remaining fixtures against Durban City and Orbit College. Considering Pirates have netted 11 goals in their last five league matches, the task facing Sundowns looks extremely difficult.

The Tshwane giants will also be missing important players tonight. Defender Khuliso Mudau and midfielder Jayden Adams are both suspended, while Thapelo Morena remains doubtful after suffering an ankle injury during last week's draw against Kaizer Chiefs.

With Morena struggling for fitness, Zuko Mdunyelwa is expected to start at right-back. In midfield, Marcelo Allende is likely to continue alongside Teboho Mokoena after impressing in the thrilling 7-4 victory over Siwelele at the weekend.

There is also growing focus on Sundowns' upcoming CAF Champions League final against Moroccan side FAR Rabat later this month. Cardoso could decide to protect some key players ahead of the two-legged showdown, which may further complicate their title push.

Galaxy, meanwhile, will be without suspended midfielder Tshepo Kakora as they look to spoil Sundowns' title hopes in front of their home supporters.