Iqraam Rayners, Tashreeq Matthews and Lucas Ribeiro of Mamelodi Sundowns celebrate during their victory over Marumo Gallants FC at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on 24 September 2024, in Pretoria, South Africa. (Photo by Alche Greeff/Gallo Images)
- Mamelodi Sundowns reclaimed the league lead with a 4-1 win over Marumo Gallants, responding to Orlando Pirates’ earlier victory.
- Sundowns built on their confidence from an 8-0 aggregate win in the CAF Champions League and a strong start to the league season.
- Gallants struggled, coming off two consecutive defeats and unable to compete with Sundowns’ dominance.
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Mamelodi Sundowns surged to the top of the league standings with an emphatic 4-1 victory against Marumo Gallants on Tuesday at Loftus Versfeld, reclaiming the spotlight after Orlando Pirates briefly held the summit earlier in the day with a 3-0 win over Polokwane City.
The Buccaneers enjoyed their moment at the top, thanks to impressive performances from Monapule Saleng and Evidence Makgopa, who both found the back of the net.
However, Sundowns quickly reminded everyone of their champion pedigree as they took to the field, eager to display their dominant form.
The mood was buoyant heading into the match for Sundowns, who were riding high on confidence after a stunning 8-0 aggregate victory over Mbabane Swallows in the CAF Champions League preliminary rounds.
Their prowess was further solidified with a strong start to the 2024/25 Betway Premiership season, having secured a solid 2-0 win against SuperSport United in the Tshwane Derby earlier in September.
In stark contrast, Gallants came into the match struggling for form, having suffered back-to-back defeats against Kaizer Chiefs and Golden Arrows in their league opener.
As the match unfolded, it was evident that Sundowns aimed to capitalize on their momentum and deliver a commanding performance, reflecting their status as league champions.
The match began with Gallants showing early promise, moving the ball effectively. However, it was Sundowns who struck first just two minutes after a missed opportunity by Siyabulela Shai.
Tashreeq Matthews finished off a slick build-up with a well-placed left-footed shot from the edge of the area, putting Sundowns ahead.
The Brazilians nearly doubled their lead shortly after, as Aubrey Modiba set up Marcelo Allende, but the latter’s effort sailed over the bar.
Undeterred, Sundowns maintained their momentum, and Iqraam Rayners found the net in the 32nd minute following a lightning-quick counter-attack, set up by Matthews to make it 2-0.
After the break, Sundowns continued to dominate, and just two minutes into the second half, Matthews set up Lucas Ribeiro this time, who calmly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper to extend the lead.
With 20 minutes remaining, Sphelele Mkhulise, was on of three substitutes introduced and he capitalized on a defensive error, scoring Sundowns’ fourth goal after intercepting a poor back pass from Nicholas Mlambo.
Gallants received a chance to reduce the deficit when they were awarded a penalty in the 84th minute after Monde Mphambaniso was fouled in the box. Gabadinho Mhango stepped up but saw his effort saved by Sundowns’ keeper Ronwen Williams.
Despite a late consolation goal from Mhango in the 88th minute, Sundowns comfortably finished the match 4-1, asserting their dominance in the league and continuing their strong start to the season.
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