Mamelodi Sundowns continued their impressive start to the DStv Premiership season with a resounding 4-1 victory over Marumo Gallants on Tuesday. The reigning champions showcased their attacking prowess, with goals from Tashreeq Matthews, Iqraam Rayners, Lucas Ribeiro, and Sphelele Mkhulise sealing a comfortable win at home.
Despite Gallants showing early promise in the opening minutes, the match quickly turned in Sundowns’ favor, leaving the visitors struggling to keep up with the relentless pace of the hosts.
Gallants entered the match with confidence, moving the ball well and creating an early chance through Siyabulela Shai, who forced the first save from Sundowns’ goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams.
However, their brief moment of hope was short-lived.
Just two minutes after Gallants’ opening effort, Sundowns struck.
In a well-executed build-up that began with goalkeeper Williams, Tashreeq Matthews finished with a left-footed shot following a precise pass into the box, giving the home side the lead.
Sundowns nearly doubled their advantage in the 20th minute when Aubrey Modiba set up Marcelo Allende with a clever pass, but Allende’s effort flew just over the crossbar.
It was a warning sign for Gallants, who were finding it increasingly difficult to contain Sundowns’ attacking threats.
The second goal arrived just after the half-hour mark, with Iqraam Rayners adding his name to the scoresheet.
A swift counter-attack, initiated by a combination of Matthews, Rayners, and Lucas Ribeiro, saw Sundowns’ front line tear through the Gallants’ defense, with Rayners finishing off the move to make it 2-0.
Despite being two goals down, Gallants attempted to push forward in search of a way back into the game.
However, every time they advanced, Sundowns responded with dangerous counter-attacks, underlining their dominance in both defense and attack.
Lucas Ribeiro, who had been a constant threat, found the back of the net to extend the lead even further.
The Brazilian forward combined seamlessly with his teammates to leave Gallants reeling, as Sundowns demonstrated their superior tactical and technical ability.
Late in the match, Sphelele Mkhulise added the fourth goal, putting the result beyond any doubt and capping off a complete performance by the champions.
Gallants managed to pull one back, but it was little more than a consolation as Sundowns maintained control until the final whistle.
With this emphatic win, Mamelodi Sundowns have now won both of their opening matches in the DStv Premiership, reinforcing their reputation as the team to beat this season.
Their attacking fluidity, combined with solid defensive work, leaves little doubt about their ambitions to retain the title.
As for Marumo Gallants, the defeat highlighted the gap between them and the league’s top teams.
Despite showing glimpses of promise, they were ultimately outclassed by a Sundowns side that looks set to dominate the league once again.
Sundowns’ next fixture will be closely watched, as they aim to maintain their perfect start and extend their unbeaten run in the season.
