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Cape Town - AmaZulu head coach Cavin Johnson expects Mamelodi Sundowns to be out for revenge when the two sides clash in an Absa Premiership encounter at the King Zwelithini Stadium in Umlazi on Friday.
Usuthu stunned the Brazilians with a 2-1 victory when the two sides met in Atteridgeville earlier in the campaign.
However, Pitso Mosimane's men are now in a different position (first place: 40 points) compared to then and lead the table going into the game.
They are four points clear of Orlando Pirates (second place: 36 points) at the summit with Kaizer Chiefs in third place with 35 points.
And with the Soweto derby taking a place and many predicting a draw, a victory for the Brazilians against AmaZulu will further cement their place at the top of the league.
Meanwhile AmaZulu are 10th and hunting for a top eight finish.
"It's a big game for both teams this weekend," Johnson said.
"They're coming here and are top of the log, which is a position they are occupying for a reason.
"They have a quality group of players and the fact that we took three points fro there earlier this season means that it will be hard for us.
"So, we expect them to come with their 'A' game because when you look at the log at the moment, they four points clear and they will want to extend that. So we're expecting a tough game."
Despite their position, Sundowns have only won twice in their last five matches and dropped points through draws i their other three.
Usuthu on the other hand have two wins, two draws and a loss from their last five. The hosts will have to cope without Butholezwe Ncube due to suspension, while goalkeeper Siyabonga Mbatha misses out due to injury.
Bangaly Soumahoro is ruled out for Sundowns, while Ricardo Nascimento is doubtful.
Rivaldo Coetzee, Cuthbert Malajila, Anthony Laffor, Lucky Mohomi, Keletso Makgalwa and Thabo Nthethe are also currently sidelined.
Kick-off is at 18:00.
