Mamelodi Sundowns’ Nuno Santos and Brayan Leon scored a goal each to seal a 2-0 win over Sekhukhune United at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.
The victory has left Kabo Yellow with 32 points. Pirates remain in second spot with 29 points, while Chiefs lurk in third position with 27 points.
10 CHANGES MADE
Following last Friday’s 2-2 with Al-Hilal in the CAF Champions League, coach Miguel Cardoso rang the changes with no less than 10.
Ronwen Williams, Khuliso Mudau, Keanu Cupido, Thato Sibiya, Grant Kekana, Teboho Mokoena, Santos Nuno Santos, Marcelo Allende, Tashreeq Matthews, and Lebo Mothiba have all made way.
The replacements were Denis Onyango, Kegan Johannes, Divine Lunga, Khulumani Ndamane, Jayden Adams, Miguel Reisinho, Thapelo Morena, Sphelele Mkhulise, Iqraam Rayners, and Brayan León.
MAMELODI SUNDOWNS WAIT OVER 90 MINUTES TO BREAK SEKHUKHUNE UNITED
The opening 20 minutes produced a cagey contest, with Sundowns enjoying more of the ball and launching early attacks, but Sekhukhune’s defensive shape held firm.
Between the 20th and 25th minute, the hosts showed some attacking moves of their own, creating a couple of forward moves without seriously troubling the Sundowns goal.
From the 25th to the 35th minute, both defences remained on top, dealing comfortably with attacking efforts as the match settled tight battle.
The pattern continued until halftime, with neither side able to carve out a clear-cut chances.
The second half followed a similar story. Sundowns controlled possession, but clear chances were scarce from the 45th minute through to full time, as Sekhukhune stayed disciplined and compact at the back.
Just when it seemed the match was heading for a goalless draw, Sundowns struck in the 92nd minute. Nuno Santos produced a calm, well-taken finish inside the box to finally break the deadlock.
Moments later, in the 93rd minute, Brayan León doubled the lead, heading home after Renaldo Leaner saved a Peter Shalulile header, sealing the win for the visitors.
Also read: Sundowns respond: Fan attacks and Mosimane calls
WITH TWO GAMES IN HAND AND THREE POINTS BEHIND, WHAT DO YOU EXPECT FROM ORLANDO PIRATES?
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