Ten-man Mamelodi Sundowns advanced to the MTN8 semi-finals after defeating Polokwane City FC 1-0 at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Tshwane on Sunday afternoon.
Unfortunately, Thabang Matuludi of PLK City scored an own goal in extra time after a 0-0 draw in the 90 minutes.
The Tshwane giants join Orlando Pirates, Stellenbosch FC and Cape Town City FC in the last four, with the draw set to take place just after the match.
Sundowns started the game without their captain, Themba Zwane, with Lucas Ribeiro Costa playing his role. Meanwhile, PLK City benched star player Oswin Appollis amid rumours of his impending move to an unnamed Algerian club.
As previously mentioned by new head coach Manqoba Mngqithi, Sundowns were seemingly direct in their game approach, aiming to leverage the pace of Peter Shalulile and Tashreeq Matthews.
Within the first ten minutes, they had a chance to take the lead when Ribeiro executed a bicycle kick inside the penalty area. However, his effort was deflected by Polokwane City goalkeeper Manuel Sapunga.
It was also noteworthy that Sundowns’ wingbacks weren’t as offensive as they used to be last season.
While Polokwane City did not exhibit significant attacking play, the home team generated numerous chances to score; however, the visiting team maintained a strong defensive performance.
In the 39th minute, Shalulile was unable to capitalize on a free header after being set up by Teboho Mokoena’s cross into the box.
Just before the half-time whistle, Rise and Shine seized a rare chance to take the lead when Hlayisi Chauke managed to evade the Sundowns’s defence; however, his attempt went over the crossbar.
POLOKWANE CITY KEPT ON APPLYING LOW-BLOCK
In the second half, Polokwane re-emerged and maintained their strategy of applying a low block, denying the hosts the space to dismantle the defence.
Zwane and Appollis were introduced by their respective clubs just before the 60th minute of the second half.
In the 69th minute, Zwane squandered a golden opportunity to open the scoring when he received a through pass inside the box. Unfortunately, he lost control of the ball and couldn’t finish.
In the 85th minute, Denis Onyango got a red card after he handled the ball outside the box, denying Chauke’s shot. Mosa Lebusa took over the goalkeeping role from the Ugandan goalkeeper.
Polokwane City kept on attacking, hoping to take advantage of the situation. However, Masandawana were able to hold on until the final whistle. Jody February came on, and Terrence Mashego was taken out before extra time.
MAMELODI SUNDOWNS TOOK THE LEAD IN EXTRA TIME THROUGH MATULUDI’S OWN GOAL
Sundowns took the lead in the 100th minute when Thabang Matuludi unfortunately scored an own goal while attempting to clear Teboho Mokoena’s pass inside the box.
The away side came out from the low block and began attacking as they were seeking a leveller, Sundowns remained resolute at the back until the last whistle.
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