Mamelodi Sundowns kept the heat on in the Betway Premiership title race with a clinical 3-1 victory over Sekhukhune United at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Sunday afternoon. The win moves the Brazilians level on points with league leaders Orlando Pirates, setting the stage for a dramatic final stretch of the season.
The encounter began with Sundowns asserting their trademark dominance in possession. The deadlock was broken in the 31st minute when Marcelo Allende, fresh off his midweek heroics against AmaZulu, combined brilliantly with Arthur Sales before rifling a spectacular shot in the top corner.
Sekhukhune United, known as Babina Noko, refused to go down without a fight. After several tactical adjustments at the break, veteran strike Bradley Grobler found the equaliser in the 70th minute, haunting his former rivals with a clinical header from a Vuyo Letlapa cross.
The Rayners show
With the game hanging in the balance, Sundowns turned to their bench, introducing Monnapule Saleng for his debut and Iqraam Rayners. The impact was immediate:
- 81st Minute: Saleng delivered a pinpoint cross from the right wing, allowing Iqraam Rayners to bundle the ball home and restore the lead.
- 90+4 Minute: As Sekhukhune pushed forward for a late equaliser, Rayners struck again with the last kick of the game, powering past Toaster Nsabata to seal the three points.
The result intensifies the race for the Premiership title. With both Sundowns and Orlando Pirates now sitting on 38 points at the summit, every match day becomes “must-win” scenario.