PIC:  Jayden Adams of Stellenbosch FC

The last time either of Stellenbosch FC or Mamelodi Sundowns lost a domestic fixture was to each other as they embark on long unbeaten runs that are the envy of the rest of the league.

It is possible that a draw may extend those records in Sunday’s Nedbank Cup semifinal at the Danie Craven Stadium, but for one there may also be an end to their domestic domination.

We pick out three key match-ups on the pitch ahead of the game.

THABO MOLOISANE VS PETER SHALULILE
Moloisane has been a revelation for Stellenbosch since his move from Maritzburg United at the start of the season, showing great maturity in what is only his second season in the topflight. But he comes up against a goal-scoring legend who rediscovered his mojo in midweek with two goals against TS Galaxy. Shalulile is the record scorer in the Nedbank Cup with 14 goals, 11 for Sundowns and three in the colours of Highlands Park. When on top form he is a huge handful for any defence with his movement and ability to ghost into space in the box.       

JAYDEN ADAMS VS MARCELO ALLENDE
Adams has been one of the driving forced behind Stellenbosch’s excellent campaign, with his form earning him a call-up to Bafana Bafana’s squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations finals in the Ivory Coast. Still only 22, he has much growth still in him, but is already an accomplished player with the ability to run the midfield. He is up against the excellent Chilean Allende, who has been a revelation since his arrival in South African football. The pint-sized midfielder has superb technical ability and vision, and also a high work-rate that sets him part. The battle between these two will be fascinating.    

IQRAAM RAYNERS VS MOTHOBI MVALA
Rayners is the form forward in South African football at present with his astonishing feat of five goals against Polokwane City at the weekend underlining his ability. He also loves the Nedbank Cup and has 10 goals in 14 appearances, having been the top-scorer in 2023 when he netted six times for Stellenbosch. His pace and movement make him a tough customer. But there are no finer centre-backs in the South African league than Mvala, who is big and powerful, but also quick across the ground and almost unbeatable in the air. His positioning is also excellent and he will likely be tasked with keeping Rayners quiet.