New boys shine as Mamelodi Sundowns beat Polokwane in Mtn8’s five-goal thriller

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New boys shine as Mamelodi Sundowns beat Polokwane in Mtn8’s five-goal thriller
Tashreeq Matthews, Mamelodi Sundowns vs Polokwane, Image: PSL

Mamelodi Sundowns needed an extra-time strike from Cassius Mailula to beat Polokwane City 3-2 in an entertaining fixture staged at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday evening.

Masandawana were not part of the teams that played in the Premier Soccer League’s matchday one as they were still in Europe for pre-season. They started the preparations for the 2026/27 campaign late following the unfortunate passing of Jayden Adams.

Sundowns go to the break leading

The Brazilians started the game well, dominating proceedings in early exchanges. However, Polokwane were equal to the task, ensuring they didn’t leak, while capitalising on attacking chances that came their way.

Eventually, Rise and Shine struck in the seventh minute as Bonginkosi Dlamini squeezed in a shot from what looked like a difficult angle.

New signing Antonio Van Wyk made an impact, setting up Teboho Mokoena for an equaliser after 21 minutes.

Van Wyk then opened his account in the club with a well-taken strike 15 minutes to the break, as his left-footed shot from the centre of the box found its way into the back of the net.

The first half could have easily ended 2-2 or either team getting more goals, but chances went begging.

Molokwane sends the game to extra time

Three minutes after the restart, Bonginkosi Dlamini teed up Tidimalo Molokwane, but the latter just couldn’t hit the target.

The visitors eventually got their equaliser in the hour-mark. Tidimalo Molokwane was found in space by Lebohang Nkaki, and he made it 2-2 to send the game to extra time.

With eight minutes to the shoot-out, Cassius Mailula announced his return with a well-taken strike from Themba Zwane’s assist to seal the win.

Sundowns have now joined Orlando Pirates in the semi-final; the defending champions beat Durban City 2-1 to advance.

<!-- Author Start -->Willis Sob<!-- Author End -->

Willis Sob

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  • Football Odds
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Willis Sob is a sports betting expert and journalist covering Nigeria and South Africa, with 16 years of experience. With a background in journalism, reporting and programme production, he specialises in football odds, and his work has appeared on OK Africa and GOAL, as well as TV, radio and podcasts.

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