Miguel Cardoso’s Sundowns era begins with win in Champions League
Mamelodi Sundowns kicked off the Miguel Cardoso era with a victory, defeating Raja Casablanca at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in a crucial CAF Champions League Group B encounter on Sunday.
The win also marked a crucial turning point for Sundowns in their group stage campaign, having drawn their first two matches.
Cardoso, who took over the reins from Manqoba Mngqithi on Tuesday, has set a positive tone for his tenure as the Tshwane giants’ head coach.
Iqraam Rayners’ solitary goal proved to be the difference-maker, ensuring Sundowns collected a full haul of points in front of their cheering fans in their final home game of the year.
The Tshwane giants climbed to second place in Group B, trailing leaders AS FAR Rabat on goal difference, thanks to their victory over Raja. They were in desperate need of a win after two consecutive draws in the group stage.
A goalless stalemate against AS Maniema Union and a late equaliser conceded against AS FAR Rabat left Sundowns with just one goal in two matches, raising concerns about their attacking prowess. This victory, however, provides a vital boost of confidence as they aim to advance to the knockout stages of the Champions League.
SUNDOWNS EDGE PAST RAJA CAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE ENCOUNTER
The match at Loftus Versfeld Stadium saw The Brazilians create early opportunities. In the third minute, Neo Maema, showcasing his intricate footwork, weaved his way into the box but saw his shot blocked. Ronwen Williams, ever vigilant, commanded his area, confidently intercepting a dangerous cross from the right in the 10th minute.
The tempo remained high throughout the first half. Lucas Ribeiro threatened in the 27th minute, his surging run into the box cut short by a timely tackle. Ribeiro continued to pose a threat, forcing a save from the Raja goalkeeper with a powerful shot from the edge of the area shortly after.
On the other side, Williams remained a commanding presence, expertly punching away a dangerous ball in the 44th minute to ensure the teams went into the break level.
The second half saw Sundowns increase the pressure. Marcelo Allende tested the Raja keeper with a low-driven shot, while Malibongwe Khoza headed a corner kick narrowly wide of the target.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 65th minute when Rayners expertly finished from the edge of the box, sparking jubilant celebrations among the home crowd.
Ribeiro continued to be a menace, producing a stunning solo run that was ultimately thwarted by a determined save.
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