Mamelodi Sundowns bounced back from their shock CAF Champions League exit over the weekend with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Marumo Gallants in their Carling Knockout Last 16 tie on Tuesday evening.
Sundowns controlled much of the possession during the opening period, but clear-cut opportunities remained at a premium as the visitors kept their defensive shape compact.
Siyanda Ndlovu opened the scoring for the hosts in emphatic fashion in the 20th minute, drilling a powerful shot into the top corner after being played in by Iqraam Rayners.
The Brazilians kept the pressure on the visitors for the remainder of the first half, but they failed to add to their lead before the break.
Gallants came out firing in the second period and created numerous chances, but they failed to make any of them count in front of goal.
That is how it ended at Loftus Versfeld, with the Brazilians managing to keep the Polokwane side at bay through to the final whistle.
The victory sees Mamelodi Sundowns proceed to the last eight while Gallants’ Carling Knockout campaign ends at the first hurdle.
Miguel Cardoso’s side join Golden Arrows, Siwelele, AmaZulu, Sekhukhune United, Orlando Pirates, and Kaizer Chiefs in the quarter-finals.
The final spot in the last eight will be decided when Durban City and Stellenbosch clash on Wednesday night.
Photo: Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images
