Mamelodi Sundowns booked their place in the semi-finals of the Carling Knockout after grinding out a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Golden Arrows at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Tuesday evening.
Sundowns took control of ball possession early on and almost broke the deadlock in the 14th minute when Siyanda Ndlovu showed great skill to beat his marker before rattling the crossbar with a powerful effort.
The host side continued to press and missed a clear-cut chance five minutes before the break, when Antonio van Wyk headed wide from an Iqraam Rayners delivery with only Dumisani Msibi to beat.
Despite controlling the match, Miguel Cardoso’s side had little to show for their efforts, heading into the half-time break deadlocked at 0-0.
Cardoso made key changes after the hour mark to inject fresh energy into the attack, and the breakthrough finally arrived in the 67th minute. Rayners was sharp to nod home the decisive goal after meeting a shot/cross by van Wyk , leaving Msibi with no chance.
Abafana Bes’thende pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages, but the Sundowns defence held firm to protect the lead and seal their place in the last four.
Next up for Miguel Cardoso’s side is an epic CAF Super Cup clash against Algeria’s USM Alger which takes place on Sunday afternoon at Loftus.
Photo: Darren Stewart/Gallo Images
