Sundowns continue domestic resurgence as ex-Pirates coach’s Arrows exit Carling Knockout

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Sundowns continue domestic resurgence as ex-Pirates coach’s Arrows exit Carling Knockout
Siyanda Ndlovu of Mamelodi Sundowns against Golden Arrows, Image - Mamelodi Sundowns

Mamelodi Sundowns made the last four of the Carling Knockout after a hard-fought 1-0 win over Golden Arrows on Tuesday night at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

With the CAF Super Cup against USM Alger coming on Sunday, coach Miguel Cardoso had to manage his squad well to avoid fatigue and possible injuries. The former Esperance tactician gave fringe players an opportunity to shine.

Arrows, under their new coach Mandla Ncikazi, who joined from Orlando Pirates, were keen on causing an upset, judging from the players who made the starting XI.

Goalless frist half!

It took Masandawana no time to settle, but as expected, Abafana Bes’thende were not going to make it easy, especially with players trying hard to impress the new coach.

In the first 30 minutes, the hosts had chances to put the ball in the back of the net, but good goalkeeping and lack of composure denied Siyanda Ndlovu, Antonio Van Wyk as well as Iqraam Rayners.

Mamelodi Sundowns striker Iqraam Rayners.
Iqraam Rayners. Image: Imago

The impressive Mothobi Mvala saw his header in the 44th minute being kept out by Dumisani Msibi to ensure the first half ended goalless.

Rayners delivers…

The lively Rayners needed just 10 minutes after the restart to force a save out of Msibi. Abafana Bes’thende then opted to play a low block, which gave the Brazilians all the room they needed with the ball.

Mvala was at it again in the 67th minute, but his header was cleared off the line much to the frustration of Sundowns.

Nevertheless, a minute later, Rayners wasn’t going to be denied as his header, from Van Wyk’s delivery, finally found the back of the net.

Despite late chances, it ended 1-0 in favour of Sundowns who are now the first team to make the semi-finals in the 2026/27 edition.

<!-- 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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