Mamelodi Sundowns have moved to the top of the Betway Premiership standings with a hard fought 2-0 win over Orbit College at Loftus on Monday night. The Brazilians have overtaken Orlando Pirates to the summit with 29 points from 14 matches. However, they have played two games more than the Buccaneers, who return to action against Sekhukhune United on Saturday.
This is an important win for Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso, who has been under pressure from a section of their supporters over the past few weeks, with persistent rumours he is on his way out of the club. This crucial home win was secured a goal in either half by Arthur Sales and debutant Brayan Lèon, who showed glimpses of a good attacking player. Since the three points have been negotiated, Sundowns turn their attention to the Champions League where they host Al-Hilal from Sudan on Friday night at the same venue.
Sundowns go into the match against Al Hilal sitting on top of Group C with four points from two matches and a win will see them consolidate their position. Cardoso rested Ronwen Williams, Aubrey Modiba, Khuliso Mudau, Teboho Mokoena and Bathusi Aubaas, who were part of the Bafana Bafana squad for the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Morocco. In their absence, he gave rare opportunities to Thapelo Morena, teenager Thato Sibiya, Kegan Johannes, Sphelele Mkhulise, Jayden Adams, Kutlwano Letlhaku and Lebo Mothiba in the starting line-up.
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The most interesting selection was that of highly-rated Sibiya, who has been doing well for the DDC side and he returned with a good performance and an assist. After 20 minutes, the match was temporarily suspended by referee Luxolo Badi due to a power failure but the problem was quickly sorted out for the game to continue. Sundowns opened the scoring after 29 minutes after Sales capitalised on a blunder by Orbit goalkeeper Cyril Chibwe, who misplaced his clearance and was punished.
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