The PSL champions were made to work hard before Polokwane City handed them an advantage
Ten-man Mamelodi Sundowns reached the semi-final of the MTN8 following a 1-0 extra time win against Polokwane City at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
The game had its twists and turns with Polokwane making life difficult for Sundowns to force extra-time only to shoot themselves in the foot by conceding an own goal.
Sundowns had ended regulation time with defender Mosa Lebusa in goal after Dennis Onyango received his marching orders in the 83rd minute.
The veteran goalkeeper was adjudged to have handled the ball outside the box when Polokwane broke through with Hlayisi Chauke rushing towards goal.
Onyango stopped the ball from getting past him but he was out of his line and the referee did not hesitate to send him off.
Why did Sundowns turn to Lebusa as a keeper?
There was confusion when Sundowns opted against introducing a keeper as Lebusa took over the gloves and jersey from Onyango.
It later emerged that the rules permitted both teams to use four substitutes in 90 minutes, and one in extra-time, and with the Brazilians having utilised their full complement at that time, they had no option but to turn to an outfield player.
Polokwane tried to be more adventurous after the sending off but could not get past the Sundowns defence while the Brazilians had the best opportunity late on when Themba Zwane hit low but found the back of defender instead.
In extra-time, Sundowns brought in goalkeeper Jody February for Terrence Mashego, perhaps mindful that the game could go to penalties and a specialist would be required.
Polokwane City shot themselves in the foot
The PSL champions then bossed proceedings with a neat exchange of passes on a number of occasions and it was through one such move that the goal was found.
Teboho Mokoena lofted a good ball into the box and in an attempt to kick it away, Thabang Matuludi rolled into his own net, handing Sundowns a massive advantage.
Having spent most of their time camped in their box and looking to catch Sundowns on the break, Polokwane tried to come in an effort to find the leveler but lacked the quality in the final third.
Sundowns have joined holders Orlando Pirates, Stellenbosch and Cape Town City into the last four ahead of Sunday’s semi-final draw. Â
