In a remarkable display of skill and depth, Mamelodi Sundowns, the current leaders of the South African Premiership, fielded a team of 11 reserves and still managed to secure a 2-1 victory against fourth-placed Sekhukhune United.
The match took place in Pretoria on Tuesday, and the home team wasted no time in taking the lead.
Within the first seven minutes of the game, Tashreeq Matthews and Thapelo Morena scored two goals, setting the stage for an exciting match. Despite a valiant effort from Sekhukhune United, Nigerian player Chibuike Ohizu was the only one able to find the back of the net, converting a penalty in the 50th minute.
This win extends Mamelodi Sundowns’ unbeaten streak to an impressive 46 league matches, spanning two seasons. With only six points needed from their remaining eight matches, the team is on track to secure their seventh consecutive championship title, a record-breaking achievement.
It’s worth noting that Mamelodi Sundowns made the decision to rest all 11 players who started in their recent loss to Esperance of Tunisia in the CAF Champions League semi-final. In their place, a different team, led by 38-year-old former Uganda goalkeeper Denis Onyango, took to the field.
Unfortunately, Onyango suffered an injury during the match, colliding with Sekhukhune captain Linda Mntambo and sustaining a deep cut and suspected concussion. He had to be stretchered off the field, leaving his team a man down.
Another player from East Africa, Kenya defender Brian Onyango, also had a challenging game, committing a foul that led to Sekhukhune’s penalty. Despite being booed by the crowd, Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena defended Onyango, acknowledging his mistakes but emphasizing his commitment to the team.
The return match against Esperance is scheduled for Friday, and Mamelodi Sundowns will be hoping to continue their winning streak and secure a spot in the final.
