Mamelodi Sundowns entered their name into the hat for the Last 8 of the Nedbank Cup after defeating Vaal University of Technology on Sunday afternoon
Nicholus Lukhubeni and Lebohang Maboe were the only two players who remained in the starting XI as Coach Pitso Mosimane made nine changes from the team that beat Bloemfontein Celtic in midweek.
Bangaly Soumahoro had the first chance for the men in Yellow when he rose up to head a Lyle Lakay free-kick but he saw his header saved by Obakeng Naane in goals.
Naane provided much resistance in goals as he made a number of saves to keep VUT in the contest as the two sides went into the break on level terms.
The game came to life in the second half as The Brazilians came close within minutes of the restart, with Ali Meza’s flick being cleared from the goalmouth.
Downs took the lead nine minutes into the half when stand-in captain Wayne Arendse rose above the VUT defence to head home from a Meza corner.
A minute later the visitors were awarded a penalty as Lukhubeni brought down Tekanolebogang Mampa at the edge of the box. VUT striker Reitumetse Hlongwane was unable to convert as he saw his penalty effort go over the bar.
Downs doubled their advantage with twenty minutes remaining as substitute Phakamani Mahlambi prodded home past Naane in goals.
Downs managed to control the closing stages of the game as they claimed the victory against a VUT side that gave a strong account of themselves.
Mamelodi Sundowns (54’ Arendse, 71’ Mahlambi) 2-0 Vaal University of Technology
Congratulations to the team. That is football,we celebrate every victory irregardless who was played, it was big victory and above all respectable victory, that is a sign that South Africa is rich in football talent, modern football is no longer like football of the olden days.These days there is no small team in football, small teams can make big teams run for their victory and sweat for their money. That is what makes football exciting, nothing is obvious .
Above all things, it is exciting that many Sundowns players got an opportunity for a game time, that victory to the next round makes them understand that they are Sundowns,they carry the same DNA, it was good for the coach to do that, it gives him a choice especially towards the end of the season while still involved in three competitions.KBY
It was a good game and I thought it was going to be a walk in the park I was wrong those laaities played well and they were not intimidated at all and it was good to see other players given a chance just wish to get another small team in the next round so that the regulars can get some rest again isende lendlela esiyihambayo. KBY I remain.