De Jong Anticipates Exciting Sundowns Showdown
Orlando Pirates attacker Andre De Jong believes their upcoming Betway Premiership clash against Mamelodi Sundowns will be a thrilling and high-pressure encounter.
The much-anticipated fixture is set to kick off at FNB Stadium on Wednesday, in what will be the final league meeting between the two title contenders this season.
Betway Premiership Title Race Heats Up
The sides previously met in the first half of the campaign, playing to a 1–1 draw at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
Pirates currently sit at the top of the Betway Premiership table with 38 points from 16 matches, holding a six-point advantage over second-placed Sundowns, who have accumulated 32 points from 15 games.
A victory for the Buccaneers would extend their lead to nine points, while Sundowns could reduce the gap to three with a win — and still have a game in hand.
De Jong: “It Is a Massive Game”
For De Jong, the clash marks his first experience of a fixture of this magnitude since joining the Soweto giants.
“It is extremely exciting,” said De Jong.
“It is a massive game for both clubs. We are six points clear, and that can put a lot of pressure on Sundowns. Hopefully, come Wednesday, we can do that.”
Preferred Position: Striker or Number 10?
The 29-year-old also addressed questions about his preferred role on the pitch.
“I can play both, obviously,” De Jong explained.
“False nine would be more so if I’m playing up front, and then as a number 10.”
With the league title race intensifying, De Jong and Pirates will be aiming to capitalise on home advantage and strengthen their grip at the top of the Betway Premiership standings.
