Ahead of the top-of-the-table clash against Orlando Pirates on Saturday, KickOff reveals how Mamelodi Sundowns navigated the potential suspensions and where they stand with player bans.
With a midweek fixture against SuperSport United, Sundowns were always going to have one eye on the highly-anticipated clash against Pirates over the weekend.
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Hence, given the squad depth, head coach Miguel Cardoso made a number of changes in the squad, with the likes of Asekho Tiwani, Zuko Mdunyelwa and Jayden Adams getting rare starts in a 3-0 win over rivals SuperSport.
The Tshwane giants entered the game against Matsatsantsa with Bathusi Aubaas suspended after his red card against Sibanye Golden Stars in the Nedbank Cup, and the Bafana Bafana midfielder will be available for selection after he completed his two-game ban.
Aubaas' availability will give Cardoso a welcome headache after Adams scored in his first start.
However, Aubaas will be back in the stands for at least another game should he get cautioned against Pirates, as he still has three yellow cards to his name.
Sphelele Mkhulise was one booking away from being suspended prior to Wednesday's encounter, as he started from the bench, following his first-half substitution against Golden Arrows on Sunday.
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He avoided suspension for the upcoming match, after he played the last 14 minutes in place of Peter Shalulile against SuperSport without a booking.
Aubrey Modiba was clearly saved from getting suspended for the titanic encounter, as he had three yellow cards prior to the Tshwane Derby and was not in the squad that faced Gavin Hunt's charges.