Golden Arrows, under the guidance of their new coach Manqoba Mngqithi, brought Mamelodi Sundowns' five-match winning streak to an end, holding the champions to a 1-1 draw in Wednesday's Betway Premiership clash at Mpumalanga Stadium.
This match marked Mngqithi's first game in charge of Abafana Bes’thende since his departure from Sundowns in December, adding extra intrigue to the encounter.
Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso made several changes, with Denis Onyango, Aubrey Modiba, Mosa Lebusa, Thapelo Morena, Bathusi Aubaas, and Tashreed Matthews all coming into the starting lineup.
Despite early pressure from Arrows, Sundowns remained composed. They came close to opening the scoring when Lucas Ribeiro forced a save from Arrows' goalkeeper Ismail Watenga with a long-range strike.
Sundowns began to dictate play, utilizing their full-backs in their familiar passing combinations from midfield.
However, it was Arrows who took the lead on the half-hour mark. Keenan Phillips expertly headed home Sbonelo Cele's precise free-kick.
RIBEIRO SCORES AGAIN
Just before halftime, Phillips went from hero to zero, conceding a penalty for handball from Modiba's cross. Ribeiro coolly converted the spot-kick, leveling the score and securing his 13th league goal of the season.
Sundowns introduced Lucas Suarez for Malibongwe Khoza and Teboho Mokoena for Jayden Adams at halftime, seeking to regain the lead. Peter Shalulile thought he had put Sundowns ahead shortly after the restart, but his effort was ruled out for offside.
Sundowns continued to press, with Ribeiro cleverly setting up Matthews, who steered his shot wide.
Substitute Arthur Sales also missed two opportunities late in the game, the second a close-range half-volley that Watenga expertly saved, ensuring the match ended in a 1-1 draw.
