Mamelodi Sundowns struck twice in stoppage time to secure a dramatic 2-0 victory over Sekhukhune in a rescheduled Betway Premiership Matchday 10 encounter, preserving their place at the top of the South African league.
In a contest that appeared destined to end goalless, the defending champions found a late surge of energy to break the resistance of a disciplined Sekhukhune side.
The result keeps Sundowns first in the standings on 32 points, maintaining a three-point cushion over second-placed Orlando Pirates, while Sekhukhune remain fifth despite suffering their third defeat of the campaign, sitting on 26 points.
The match unfolded at a measured pace, with Sundowns struggling to impose their usual authority during the opening half.
Despite naming a strong starting line-up, the visitors lacked sharpness in the final third and were unable to translate possession into clear-cut chances.
Sekhukhune, well organised and compact, successfully limited space and closed down passing lanes, ensuring the score remained level at the interval.
After the break, the pattern of play remained largely unchanged.
Sundowns pushed forward with greater intent but continued to waste opportunities, a problem compounded by visible fatigue following their recent CAF Confederation Cup draw against Al-Hilal.
Sekhukhune sensed vulnerability and applied pressure of their own, pressing high and forcing errors, yet they too failed to make their moments count.
As the clock ticked into the final minutes, the home side appeared on course to earn a valuable point against the league leaders.
That confidence was shattered in the 91st minute when Santos produced a decisive finish to give Sundowns an unexpected breakthrough.
The goal shifted the momentum instantly, and with five minutes of added time signalled by the referee, Sekhukhune threw players forward in search of an equaliser.
Their gamble proved costly. In the 93rd minute, Leon capitalised on the spaces left behind to score Sundowns’ second, sealing the result and underlining the champions’ ability to deliver under pressure.
The late double strike turned a frustrating evening into a crucial triumph for the Pretoria-based side.
For Sundowns, the win represents a timely response after continental commitments, reinforcing their title credentials.
Sekhukhune, meanwhile, will take encouragement from a disciplined display, even if the late collapse proved a painful reminder of the fine margins at the top end of the Betway Premiership.
