Reasons TS Galaxy Remain a Formidable Foe for Sundowns in Their Concluding Betway Premiership Match

Indeed, just title challengers Orlando Pirates boast a superior record versus Sundowns compared to Galaxy from the onset of the 2023/24 season, with The Rockets persistently troubling coach Miguel Cardoso’s squad.

Sundowns require a victory to maintain pressure on Orlando Pirates. Such a result would position them six points ahead atop the standings, though their league schedule concludes before the upcoming two-legged CAF Champions League final versus AS FAR, commencing in Pretoria this Sunday.

Pirates face two matches left and hold a significantly better goal difference, meaning they could halt Sundowns’ eight-year dominance as national title holders by triumphing over Durban City at home and Orbit College away.

However, Pirates might not require those wins should Galaxy prevent Sundowns from securing full points on Tuesday, and past encounters suggest they possess the capability.

Sundowns have secured just three triumphs in their previous seven clashes with Galaxy, including zero successes in their most recent four trips to face The Rockets (D2 L2).

Galaxy eliminated them from the Carling Knockout via penalties after a 2-2 stalemate in October 2023, then achieved a 1-1 league draw, a subsequent 1-0 league victory last term, and a 2-0 Nedbank Cup win against Sundowns this February.

Sundowns’ most recent away win at Galaxy occurred with a 2-1 result in January 2023.

During this period, Sundowns maintain a 43% win rate against Galaxy, marking their second poorest performance against any Betway Premiership rival behind Pirates (30%).

For an unexplained cause, Galaxy manage to unsettle Sundowns, particularly when the latter are not performing at their peak.

They must replicate this feat to halt their own dismal streak of stalemates and defeats.

Galaxy have failed to win in their past 13 league outings (D4 L9) following a 2-0 home triumph over Marumo Gallants in January. That said, they have managed draws in their latest three fixtures.

This represents the final home outing for interim coach Bernard Parker prior to relinquishing control at season’s end.

Galaxy have not entirely escaped the relegation battle, yet a single additional victory should suffice.

They sit five points above second-from-bottom Gallants with two fixtures remaining, rendering a catch-up improbable.

Their weekend home draw with Chippa United guarantees avoidance of the foot of the table and the direct drop zone.