Mamelodi Sundowns’ dominance was on full display as they cruised past Golden Arrows 5-0 in their Carling Knockout Cup round of 16 match at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday night.
Sundowns, who booked a spot in the quarter-finals after defeating Arrows, had a strong start in their pursuit of the Carling Knockout title following their disappointment of missing out on the first trophy of the 2024/25 season.
The Brazilians were knocked out of the 2024 MTN8 by Stellenbosch FC in the two-legged semi-final. Stellenbosch FC won both matches by one goal and secured a 2-0 aggregate victory.
In the match against Arrows, Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi surprisingly started Teboho Mokoena and Khuliso Mudau on the bench, despite their impressive performances for Bafana Bafana in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers against Congo Brazzaville. Bafana won 5-0 at home and drew 1-1 in the away fixture.
Sundowns had a strong start to the match against Arrows, dominating ball possession and creating several goal-scoring opportunities.
SUNDOWNS OPEN THE SCORING WITH A GOAL BY THAPELO MORENA
After proving to be the best team on the pitch in the early exchanges, Sundowns opened the scoring in the 14th minute with a goal from Thapelo Morena.
In the 25th minute, Sundowns found another goal to extend their lead by 2-0, thanks to a goal by Iqraam Rayners. The Bafana Bafana international has had a promising start to life at Sundowns after joining the club from Stellenbosch in the off-season.
The goal against the KZN-based side increased Rayners’ tally for the season to five goals in six matches across all competitions.
Sundowns went into the half-time break with a comfortable 2-0 lead, leaving Arrows with plenty of work to do in the second-half. In the second stanza, Arrows tried to turn the game around, but Sundowns stood firm in defence.
Kabo Yellow scored three quick goals late in the second-half, with Mothobi Mvala, Peter Shalulile, and Kutlwano Letlhaku finding the back of the net.
With the win, Sundowns secure a spot in the CKO quarter-finals. The draw for the last eight teams is set to take place on Sunday, 20 October 2024.
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