Mamelodi Sundowns ended Stellenbosch’s undefeated run in the 2022/2023 DStv Premiership as the defending champions won 3-0 at the Loftus Stadium on Wednesday evening, with debutant Marcelo Allende grabbing a goal.
In what was billed as a match between the home team’s possession game and Stellenbosch’s pace, it was Sundowns who grabbed the lead within 90 seconds! Neo Maema was on hand to fire home, after Stellenbosch failed to clear their lines from Gaston Sirino’s cross.
After ten minutes of Sundowns controlling things, Fawaaz Basadien almost found an equaliser, but his well-struck shot from the left was saved by Ronwen Williams. Oshwin Andries’ ambitious effort a minute later flew over the goal.
Themba Zwane went wide in the 19th minute, while Rushine De Reuck’s header in the 27th minute was deflected behind. Teboho Mokoena’s long-range attempt in the 33rd minute beat Sage Stephens but struck the crossbar.
Stellenbosch thought they should have had a penalty in the 39th minute after Jayden Adams’ header struck the upright before hitting Zwane, who standing on the goal line, on the arm.
Instead, it was 2-0 to Sundowns, as Peter Shalulile scored his fourth of the season, substitute Thapelo Morena, who had come on for the injured Gaston Sirino, with the assist to find the Namibian in the box, who coolly finished. And the two-goal margin remained when Jelly Chavani blew the whistle for the break.
Aubrey Modiba fired wide in the 51st minute, while Stephens had to make good save to stop De Reuck’s goal-bound header two minutes later.
Sundowns gave a debut to their new signing Marcelo Allende, bringing on the player they finally confirmed earlier today, for the final twenty minutes. The Chilean was almost instantly involved, showing quality touches, and even taking set pieces.
Rafiq De Goede’s header in the 72nd minute was never troubling Williams, but the game was wrapped up four minutes later, as the impressive Allende scored on debut, set up by nicely by Morena, with his second assist.
Morena almost grabbed a deserved goal in the 89th minute, but his shot at goal was saved by Stephens.
A first loss for Stellenbosch this season, while Sundowns go top of the log, albeit likely temporarily, ahead of the later fixtures.
