Mamelodi Sundowns beat Milford to draw level with Orlando Pirates

Mamelodi Sundowns moved level with Betway Premiership leaders Orlando Pirates after a hard-fought 2-0 win over newcomers Milford at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday.

The result leaves Sundowns second in the table on 13 points, with Orlando Pirates remaining top because of their superior goal difference. Both clubs have made unbeaten starts to the league campaign and will face each other in the MTN8 final on 10 October, although the venue for that match has not yet been announced.

Sundowns had to work considerably harder than the scoreline might suggest, with Milford matching them for long periods and creating the clearer opportunities before half-time. The victory also exposed areas for improvement for Miguel Cardoso’s side, who were not able to impose themselves consistently against the newcomers.

That uneven display will be a concern for Sundowns, particularly with Pitso Mosimane now preparing Bafana Bafana for the 2027 Afcon qualifiers. Mamelodi Sundowns are among the national team’s main suppliers, meaning the performances of their key players will be closely monitored.

Defender Grant Kekana said at the beginning of the season that Sundowns remained the team to beat, despite losing the league title to Orlando Pirates last term. They were therefore expected to demonstrate their authority against Milford, but the visitors showed enough composure and attacking ambition to trouble the champions.

Sundowns had conceded in three of their four league matches before this game and once again looked vulnerable at times. Milford came close to taking the lead when Thabana Mabena controlled a pass inside the penalty area and struck towards goal. His effort hit the face of Ronwen Williams before flying away from danger.

The home side responded when Antonio van Wyk released Tashreeq Matthews with a carefully weighted pass. Matthews brought the ball under control and managed to send his finish through the legs of goalkeeper Siphamanda Hleza, but Olwethu Cele made an important clearance on the goal line.

Cardoso had made several changes to the side that defeated Golden Arrows 3-2 in the MTN8 semi-final on Sunday. Sundowns progressed after the tie finished 3-3 on aggregate, winning through the away-goals rule, and a number of regular starters were rested against Milford.

One of the changes saw Bathusi Aubaas replace Teboho Mokoena in midfield. Aubaas struggled to influence the opening half as Milford repeatedly found room in the final third, and he was withdrawn at the interval, with Mokoena taking his place.

The tactical adjustment quickly gave Sundowns greater control. Before the break, Aubrey Modiba regained possession near the edge of the box and delivered into the area. Iqraam Rayners met the cross, but Hleza blocked his initial effort. The rebound returned to Rayners, who made no mistake from close range to put the hosts ahead.

Mokoena’s introduction steadied the midfield, although Sundowns were briefly concerned when he went down after being stamped on by Khanyisani Radebe. Cardoso and new Bafana Bafana coach Mosimane watched anxiously before the midfielder was able to continue.

With Mokoena helping to dictate the tempo, Sundowns became more effective in attack. Cardoso also introduced the pace and creativity of Cassius Mailula and Siyanda Ndlovu, and the pressure eventually produced a second goal.

Modiba advanced into the final third, took time to assess his options and picked out Van Wyk. The forward then curled a composed finish beyond Hleza to give Sundowns a two-goal advantage.

The hosts managed the closing stages without allowing Milford back into the contest, while Williams completed the match with a clean sheet. Sundowns therefore remain level with the league leaders after five Betway Premiership matches.