Sundowns move level with Orlando Pirates after victory over Milford FC

Mamelodi Sundowns maintained their unbeaten start to the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season with a 2-0 win over newly promoted Milford FC at Loftus Versfeld, moving them level on points with league leaders Orlando Pirates.

The result took Sundowns to 13 points from five matches, with Pirates currently ahead only because they have scored three more goals. The victory also extended Sundowns’ unbeaten home run in the league to 33 matches.

Milford FC, promoted after winning last season’s Motsepe Foundation Championship play-offs, remain in fifth place despite the defeat. Their encouraging start to life in the top flight continued in another confident display against the African champions, even though they were unable to take anything from the match.

The visitors played with ambition and were willing to keep possession rather than sit back. They created opportunities during an open contest and came close to taking the lead before Sundowns went ahead just before half-time.

Iqraam Rayners scored from close range in the 47th minute after Aubrey Modiba won the ball near the edge of the penalty area and squared it across for the Bafana Bafana striker. The goal was Rayners’ first league goal of the season.

Milford FC felt aggrieved by the way the opening goal was created, disputing Modiba’s challenge and how he regained possession before supplying the assist. Their performance had given them reason to believe they could trouble Sundowns, but the hosts had the advantage at the interval.

Ronwen Williams was also required to make two important saves in each half to preserve Sundowns’ lead. The goalkeeper’s interventions were crucial in keeping Miguel Cardoso’s side in control of a game that might have developed very differently had Milford FC converted their chances.

On another day, those opportunities could have turned the match in favour of the Stallions. Milford FC continued to compete after falling behind and did not give up, but Sundowns’ quality eventually proved decisive.

Antonio van Wyk settled the contest in the 76th minute by scoring the second goal. The strike gave Sundowns the breathing room they needed and ensured that Milford FC’s late resistance would not produce a comeback.

The newly promoted side’s willingness to attack and retain possession earned credit despite the final score, while Sundowns showed the experience and defensive resilience that have helped them remain unbeaten at home for such a long period.

Sundowns now sit alongside Orlando Pirates at the top of the Betway Premiership standings, separated only by goal difference. Their unbeaten run at Loftus Versfeld continues, while Milford FC remain fifth after another competitive showing in their debut top-flight campaign.