Mamelodi Sundowns secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Stellenbosch FC at the Cape Town Stadium on Wednesday night, thanks to Iqraam Rayners' solitary goal.
The win solidified Sundowns' position at the top of the Betway Premiership table, extending their lead to three points over second-placed Orlando Pirates. With nine games played, the Brazilians have accumulated 24 points.
Sundowns made several changes to their starting lineup, with Denis Onyango, Thapelo Morena, Aubrey Modiba, Kobamelo Kodisang, and Rushine De Reuck replacing key players like Ronwen Williams, Khuliso Mudau, Teboho Mokoena, Sphelele Mkhulise, and Mosa Lebusa.
The match was an evenly contested affair, with both teams creating numerous scoring opportunities.
RAYNERS SCORED AGAINST FORMER SIDE
Rayners, who had a chance to score against his former club early on, eventually found the net in the 18th minute, capitalizing on a brilliant pass from Kodisang.
Stellenbosch FC fought hard to equalize but were unable to break down the Sundowns defense. The Brazilians, despite squandering a few chances to extend their lead, held on to secure the crucial three points.
This was a second victory for Miguel Cardoso since taking reins at Sundowns, his first in the league.
This past weekend, he guided the team to their first triumph in the CAF Champions League group stages this season.
