PSL promotional playoffs enter a critical phase

The Premier Soccer League promotional playoffs are hanging in the balance as all three teams have already begun their campaigns in the mini-league. However, none have yet demonstrated the urgency to firmly claim their spot in the top division, with the tournament still goalless after three matches.

Cape Town City will next travel to face Casric Stars at the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium on Wednesday (kick-off at 3pm). After a goalless draw at home, City will be under pressure to get their promotion hopes back on track against a Casric team known for their attacking style.

With so much at stake for both sides and the coveted place in the Premiership up for grabs, here’s a look at five key players who could influence the momentum in their teams’ favor.

Kermit Erasmus

The former Orlando Pirates striker has already been crucial for the Mpumalanga-based team, helping them finish third last season. His added-time goal against Hungry Lions secured a valuable win that eliminated Black Leopards from contention on the final day, giving Casric a points advantage to qualify third and reach their second playoffs in three years.

Erasmus’s experience will be vital as the pressure mounts in this mini tournament. He is one of the calm, composed players likely to capitalize on chances and he will be the main threat to City's defense.

Decide Chauke

Having scored eight goals in 30 appearances during last season’s NFD Motsepe Foundation Championship, Casric will rely heavily on Chauke to increase his tally, especially as they play their first home match in this tournament.

Known for his smart movement and clinical finishing, Chauke’s relentless work rate could force mistakes from a City side desperate for a positive result, potentially swinging the playoffs in their favor.

Haashim Domingo

The former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder possesses the skill to break down any defense. Despite a quiet season with his team struggling for results, he still has an opportunity to turn things around and guide his side to victory on Wednesday.

City struggled to find the final pass to unlock Orbit College’s defense on Saturday, and with one of the country’s finest technical players in Domingo, the crunch tournament could just be the time for him to show why he was highly rated by some of the top clubs in the continent

Darren Keet

While goals are crucial, the presence of experienced goalkeeper Darren Keet remains vital to keeping the Cape side’s defense solid because avoiding conceding goals is just as important as scoring them at the other end.

Many players have yet to shoulder responsibility during the league and this playoff campaign. After a heated confrontation with Nathan Fasika on Saturday, City will need the same intensity and leadership from Keet for the remaining matches and use that to kickstart their campaign and quest to save their place in the top flight.

Emile Witbooi

The 16-year-old injected energy and creativity when he came on, nearly creating the best chance of the game. His hunger and enthusiasm could be exactly what Coach Diogo Peral and the technical team need to take control of the mini-league.