Cheetahs vs Airlink Pumas Prediction & Betting Tips - Currie Cup

Prediction published on 30/07/2025, 13:00  by Ita Emmanuel | Modified on 01/08/2025 at 21:37 in Currie Cup Predictions

Free State Cheetahs host Airlink Pumas in Currie Cup Premier Division matchday two showdown on Friday. The Cheetahs will aim to return to winning ways against the Pumas after matchday one defeat to Boland Cavaliers. Here is our prediction for the match.

Free State Cheetahs suffered a narrow defeat in their Currie Cup opener against Boland Cavaliers at the weekend. Flanker Donavan Don's last-gasp match-winning try condemned the team to a narrow 37-35 defeat despite their 11-point lead in the second half.

This result marked the second straight Currie Cup defeat for François Steyn's side dating back to last season. The Bloemfontein club are also winless in their last three Currie Cup home matches (D1, L2) and will hope to return to winning ways on Friday. 

Airlink Pumas ended last season on two straight defeats, including a thumping 41-14 home loss to Free State Cheetahs in their final fixture. However, they got off to a roaring start this season, defeating Griquas 49-28 in their opening match. 

Jimmy Stonehouse's side have both revenge and reward on the line heading into this match. They have been unlucky against the Bloemfontein-based outfit lately, losing their last three encounters, two of which by double-digit margins. However, they boast a formidable away record against the Cheetahs, winning three of their last four away encounters.