Mamelodi Sundowns out of MTN8 after the Weekends Clash

The Brazilians dominated possession early in the match, holding over 70% of the ball. However, the hosts managed to create a few dangerous opportunities that threatened the Pretoria-based team. Sundowns also generated some clear-cut chances, but Stellenbosch’s defense proved difficult to breach.

Grant Kekana made a crucial early intervention, clearing the ball away from Stellies’ Lehohonoolo Mojela, who was closing in on goal. Around the 30-minute mark, Jody February made an excellent save, parrying a shot away from goal.

With limited scoring chances for both teams after the half-hour mark, the match went into halftime locked at 0-0, with Stellenbosch leading 1-0 on aggregate.

The second half saw the Western Cape side extend their lead with a goal, while Bafana Ba Style remained patient and gradually gained confidence in their attacking play.

In the final stages, Sundowns created three dangerous opportunities, but none found the back of the net. Two shots hit the woodwork, and another was saved by the goalkeeper. The defeat in both legs against Stellenbosch means that the Brazilians are out of the MTN8.

Mamelodi Sundowns lost to Stellenbosch FC due to a combination of factors. Stellenbosch’s resolute defense made it difficult for Sundowns to convert their possession into goals, despite creating some clear-cut chances. After an early period of dominance, Sundowns struggled to generate meaningful scoring opportunities, particularly after the 30-minute mark. In the second half, they created three dangerous chances, but two shots hit the woodwork, and another was saved by the goalkeeper, highlighting their lack of clinical finishing. Stellenbosch’s early goal in the second half added pressure to Sundowns, who were already trailing on aggregate. This goal forced Sundowns to take more risks, which they couldn’t capitalize on, ultimately leading to their elimination from the MTN8

Starting XI: February, Lebusa, Mokoena, Kekana, Mashego, Mudau, Zwane ©, Allende, Letlhaku, Ribeiro, Sales.

Substitutes: Pieterse, Coetzee, Morena, Modiba, Aubaas, Maboe, Kodisang, Matthews, Shalulile.

Mamelodi Sundowns