Sundowns Close In on Eighth League Title
Mamelodi Sundowns took a significant step toward securing their eighth consecutive Betway Premiership title with a commanding 3-0 victory over Richards Bay at Loftus Stadium on April 30. The result saw Masandawana open a 12-point gap over their closest challengers, Orlando Pirates, who suffered a surprising home defeat to Sekhukhune United.
nnnnThis win capped off a superb few days for head coach Miguel Cardoso’s side, who had just returned from Cairo after securing a place in the CAF Champions League final by eliminating Al Ahly on April 25.
nnnnDespite concerns of fatigue following their continental travels, Sundowns showed no signs of slowing down. They dominated from the outset, with Arthur Sales opening the scoring in the eighth minute. Teboho Mokoena delivered a perfectly weighted pass that split the Richards Bay defence, and Sales calmly slotted the ball past goalkeeper Ian Otieno.
nnnnSundowns doubled their lead in the 28th minute when Tashreeq Matthews delivered a dangerous cross that Iqraam Rayners cleverly flicked into the net. The goal marked Rayners’ 10th of the season in the league, continuing his fine form since joining from Stellenbosch FC.
nnnnThe hosts put the game beyond doubt just three minutes into the second half. Marcelo Allende played a slick one-two with Sales before firing a clinical finish past Otieno to make it 3-0.
nnnnIt was a dominant display from Sundowns, who controlled possession and tempo throughout, while Richards Bay struggled to pose any real threat.
nnnnWith the title now firmly within reach, Sundowns will look to maintain their momentum both domestically and in the upcoming CAF Champions League final.
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