Mabena brace helps Mamelodi Sundowns overcome Durban City in Diski opener

Mamelodi Sundowns began their DStv Diski Challenge campaign with a 4-2 victory over Durban City in a six-goal contest at the Princess Magogo Stadium on Saturday.

Siyabonga Mabena opened the scoring after 13 minutes, finding the top corner with a powerful strike from the edge of the six-yard box.

The forward then turned provider 10 minutes before half-time, setting up Kutlwano Letlhaku for a straightforward finish inside the penalty area as Sundowns extended their advantage.

Durban City, known as the Team of Choice, improved after the interval and reduced the deficit 10 minutes into the second half. Aphelele Zondi converted from the penalty spot after a coming-together in the attacking area.

The hosts continued to threaten and eventually drew level through Sibusisio Mdlalose, who produced an excellent individual finish.

Sundowns responded strongly in the closing stages. Mabena scored again to complete his brace before Simphiwe Mlondo found the net in the final second, confirming a comprehensive opening-day win for Masandawana.

Kruger United make winning Diski debut

Kruger United marked their first DStv Diski Challenge campaign with a 2-0 win over Marumo Gallants, scoring both goals after half-time.

The Village boys are competing in the “reverse league” after earning promotion to the elite league by winning the Motsepe Foundation Championship last season.

Marumo Gallants made life difficult for the newcomers during the first half and ensured the teams went into the interval level at 0-0.

Kruger United then took control after the break, scoring twice to secure maximum points in their first match of the campaign.

Mepha settles tight contest for Sekhukhune

Sekhukhune United also opened the season with a victory, edging Siwelele FC 1-0 at the UJ Soweto Campus in Johannesburg.

Both teams looked to make an early impression, but neither managed to establish an advantage before half-time and the opening 45 minutes ended goalless.

The match remained evenly balanced until late in the contest, when Mepha scored to put the visitors ahead.

That goal proved decisive as Sekhukhune United held on for a narrow win and began their campaign with three points.