Stellenbosch FC secured an important 1-0 win over Mamelodi Sundowns in the first-leg of the MTN8 semi-final tie at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on Wednesday night.
Below are the talking points of this encounter.
IQRAAM RAYNERS NOT ELIGIBLE TO PLAY IN MTN8 FOR MAMELODI SUNDOWNS
Iqraam Rayners was not part of the Sundowns’ matchday squad to face his former side, Stellenbosch.
The Bafana Bafana international was officially unveiled by Masandawana today, as he joins the Chloorkop-based outfit on a long-term deal.
As Cape Wineland’s club locked horns with Sundowns on their own turf, Rayners couldn’t feature for Sundowns in the MTN8 semi-final clash as he has already played for Stellies in the competition.
MAMELODI SUNDOWNS AND STELLENBOSCH FC MEET FOR THE FOURTH TIME IN A CUP MATCH
According to Opta Jabu statistics, Mamelodi Sundowns and Stellenbosch FC are meeting for the fourth time in a domestic cup competition.
Stellenbosch have faced ‘Bafana Ba Style’ more than they have faced any other opponent in cup matches since their 2019 promotion to the SA football top-flight.
FAWAAZ BASADIEN SCORES FOR STELLENBOSCH FC
Devin Titus was brought down illegally inside the box, and ‘Stellies’ were awarded a penalty.
Fawaaz Basadien stood up to take the penalty and made no mistake from the spot to give the visitors the lead and an important away goal in the 62nd minute of the game.
KAIZER CHIEFS HEAD COACH NASRESDDINE NABI IN ATTENDANCE
Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasresddine Nabi was in attendance when Sundowns faced ‘Stellies’ at the Lucas Moripe Stadium tonight.
Amakhosi are set to battle out with the Manqoba Mngqithi’s side next month in a Betway Premiership showdown. Nabi was there to monitor how the league-defending champions were performing.
THE SECOND LEG TO BE THE DECIDER
The MTN8 semi-final second leg will take place on Sunday, 1 September 2024. This showpiece will be played at Moses Mabhida Stadium, with the kickoff scheduled for 15:00.
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