Sundowns survive Arrows onslaught to set up exciting MTN8 final with Pirates

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Sundowns survive Arrows onslaught to set up exciting MTN8 final with Pirates
Brayan Leon leads Mamelodi Sundowns teammates in celebration. Photo: Mamelodi Sundowns

Mamelodi Sundowns have set up a mouth-watering MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates after securing their ticket in the most dramatic of fashions.

Sundowns were on the brink of elimination with a little over 10 minutes of regulation time still to play but pulled a rabbit out of the hat when Macello Allende scored what proved to be the deceive goal.

Having lost the first leg 1-0, Sundowns knew they had to overturn the deficit and outscore Arrows in the second leg away on Sunday, and they did just that although it was not so straightforward.

Grant Kekana of Mamelodi Sundowns challenges Junior Dion of Golden Arrows in the MTN8.
Grant Kekana of Mamelodi Sundowns challenges Junior Dion of Golden Arrows in the MTN8. Image: Mamelodi Sundowns

The Brazilians broke the deadlock after 30 minutes in beautiful fashion. A neat exchange of passes started by ex-Arrows man Siyanda Ndlovu saw him pass to Allende and the Chilean found Cassius Mailula who made no mistake from close range to bring the tie to 1-1.

That was the first goal conceded by Arrows in six games and the two sides went into the break with Sundowns leading 1-0.

Dramatic scenes in the second half

After halftime, Sundowns were on the end of a poor refereeing decision when Kulumane Ndamane scored the second goal but it was ruled out for a handball.

Fawaaz Basadien had whipped in a good cross which the defender connected well with in the box with replays showing he scored with his chest but the referee’s decision to rule it out stood.

It nearly proved costly as in the 68th minute, Arrows drew level and took a 2-1 lead in the semi-final tie. A swift counter attack saw Tashreeq Matthews foul one of the Arrows players but with Sundowns waiting for the whistle, the referee waved play on.

The home side responded and Junior Dion, who had scored the winner in the first leg, swept home after receiving a good pass from Ronaldo Van Neel.

At this juncture, Arrows needed to hold on and seal a place in the final but Sundowns had other ideas as in the 77th minute, they made a run forward before Thapelo Morena found Allende in the box, the Chilean midfielder squeezing home for 2-1 in favour of the Brazilians.

Siyanda Ndlovu and Cassius Mailula of Mamelodi Sundowns.
Siyanda Ndlovu and Cassius Mailula of Mamelodi Sundowns. Image: SuperSport

Sundowns leave it late but complete the job

By this time, the tie was finely balanced at 2-2 but Sundowns were holding the advantage on the away goals rule.

The Brazilians would, however, end any doubts when in the 84th minute, substitute Antonio van Wyk unleashed an unstoppable low shot from distance which sailed into the net for 3-1 on the day and 3-2 in the tie.

Cassius Mailula of Mamelodi Sundowns taking on Golden Arrows in the MTN8 semi-final first leg.
Cassius Mailula of Mamelodi Sundowns taking on Golden Arrows in the MTN8 semi-final first leg. Photo: Mamelodi Sundowns

There was still more drama in time added on as Arrows threatened to spoil Sundowns’ party with a second goal scored by substitute Philani Kumalo, who connected well with Sabelo Sithole’s pass.

Sundowns now return to the final since 2023 and will face Pirates, who beat them on post-match penalties three years ago, and who are looking for a fifth straight trophy.

The draw for the final will take place on Monday.

<!-- Author Start -->Joel Oliver<!-- Author End -->

Joel Oliver

Author

Joel Oliver is a sports journalist covering South Africa, with 16 years in sports media and a Bachelor's Degree in Communication. Focused on football analysis and responsible gambling, his work has appeared on GOAL and Pulse Sports Kenya, and he is a regular football analyst on TV and radio.

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