Mamelodi Sundowns reach Carling Knockout Cup quarter-finals

Mamelodi Sundowns responded to their shock CAF Champions League exit by beating last season’s finalists Marumo Gallants 1-0 to reach the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-finals.

Sundowns went into the match under significant pressure, with coach Miguel Cardoso making several changes to his starting line-up. The Tshwane side controlled possession from the beginning as they looked to unsettle a Marumo Gallants defence that remained compact and reluctant to leave space.

Their first clear opening came after 10 minutes, when Iqraam Rayners sent a cross into the penalty area, but no Sundowns player was able to apply the finishing touch.

The hosts took the lead after 20 minutes. Thapelo Morena found Rayners, who produced a well-weighted pass for Siyanda Ndlovu. Skhwishi then finished from a tight angle to put Sundowns 1-0 ahead.

Marumo Gallants struggled to create a sustained threat before the interval. Sundowns goalkeeper Ricardo Goss was required to make only one save, dealing comfortably with an effort from Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo.

Cardoso made two changes at half-time, introducing Aubrey Modiba and Marcelo Allende for Fawaz Basadien and Thabo Cele. Sundowns continued to dictate the tempo after the break, restricting Gallants’ time on the ball and forcing them to chase the game.

The visitors came close to an equaliser just before the hour mark when Samkele Sihlali took advantage of a lapse in the Sundowns defence. Goss reacted quickly, however, making an important save to preserve his side’s advantage.

Sundowns held on to their narrow lead to secure their place in the last eight of the Carling Knockout Cup. Their quarter-final opponents will be revealed in Wednesday’s draw.