sportskeeda
Mamelodi Sundowns regained their winning form with a convincing victory over Sekhukhune United in the Betway Premiership match at Loftus Stadium on Saturday.
Following a tough week that saw them lose in the Carling Knockout Cup final to Magesi FC and draw against S Maniema in the CAF Champions League group stage, Sundowns overcame their recent disappointments, bringing happiness and relief to their anxious fans.
Trésor Tshibwabwa played a crucial role in Sundowns’ triumph by scoring an own goal during the first half. The second half saw Arthur Sales extend the lead with a penalty. The decision to award the penalty was controversial, as Iqraam Rayners appeared to dive in the area, prompting referee Eugene Mdluli to give the kick.
Rayners ultimately confirmed Sundowns’ victory in the 89th minute, taking advantage of a defensive error from Sekhukhune and skillfully placing the ball into the top corner.
The Brazilians made five changes to their lineup on Saturday compared to the team that played to a goalless draw against Congolese side AS Maniema earlier in the week.
Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba, Bathusi Aubaas, Siphelele Mkhulise, and Rayners stepped onto the field, replacing Thapelo Morena, Devine Lunga, Teboho Mokoena, Erwin Saavedra, and Kabomelo Kodisang.
In the first 20 minutes, Sundowns dominated possession but Sekhukhune managed to hold them scoreless. Manqoba Mngqithi’s squad maintained their high level of play, eventually breaking through in the 22nd minute.
Aubrey Modiba sent in a cross into the six-yard box, which forced Congolese defender Tshibwabwa to inadvertently score an own goal. Babina Noko nearly equalized after 30 minutes, but captain Ronwen Williams made a vital save to deny them.
In the 48th minute of the second half, Sekhukhune goalkeeper Al Badra Sangare seemed to foul Rayners in the box, leading to a penalty for Sundowns. Sales took the penalty and converted it successfully, scoring his first goal in Sundowns’ colors. He almost netted again in the 54th minute, but Sangaré was quick to block his effort.
Katlego Mkhabela had a prime chance in the 62nd minute, but once again, Williams displayed his skills, making another crucial save. Mngqithi made his initial substitutions in the 65th minute, introducing Morena, Mothobi Mvala, and Mokoena in place of Mudau, Grant Kekana, and Aubaas. Mokoena attempted a long-range strike in the 70th minute, but it missed the target. Former Sundowns forward Keletso Makgalwa had an opportunity in the 75th minute, but Mvala and Mokoena successfully thwarted his effort.
This win propelled Sundowns to the summit of the Betway Premiership with 21 points, tied on points with Orlando Pirates but ahead on goal difference. However, the Pirates still have a chance to reclaim the top spot if they secure a victory against Stellenbosch on Sunday.
