Airlink Pumas vs Cheetahs Prediction & Betting Tips - Currie Cup

Prediction published on 05/09/2024, 07:30  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 06/09/2024 at 06:41 in Currie Cup Predictions

The undisputed blockbuster matchup of the final week in the 2024 Currie Cup group stage will see the Pumas take on the Free State Cheetahs at the Mbombela Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The hosts are in fifth place in the group standings, while the visitors are fourth. Let’s get into the match prediction. 

With the top three places already locked in, it’s do-or-die time for both these sides, as the winner of this match will secure the fourth and final place in the knockout stage, while the loser will bow out of the competition. 

The Pumas passed up a clear opportunity to take the advantage heading into the final weekend, as they lost to Western Province 39-30 last Sunday, two days after the Cheetahs were defeated by Griquas. 

When these sides met in the final of this competition last season, the Cheetahs won by eight points (25-17), marking their second consecutive victory over the Pumas.

As mentioned, the Cheetahs suffered a shock 44-31 defeat last week to Griquas, in match that had they won, would have secured them fourth place and a spot in the knockout round of the competition. 

They now face the task of heading to Mpumalanga to face their old foe but will be able to take some confidence from the fact they have won on their last two visits to the Mbombela Stadium. 

Notably, both these sides have identical records this season and three of the last five matches between them have been decided by eight or fewer points.