Sundowns Assert Dominance in Tshwane Derby with 2-0 Victory
In a compelling showcase of local football talent, Mamelodi Sundowns secured a convincing 2-0 victory over SuperSport United in the highly anticipated Tshwane Derby. Held at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium on September 17, 2024, this Betway Premiership encounter saw Sundowns reaffirm their dominance in the capital city’s football scene.
Early Stages and Tactical Play
The match started with both teams demonstrating their intent to dominate. Mamelodi Sundowns, freshly returned from their CAF Champions League commitments, fielded a strong lineup including the return of Namibian forward Peter Shalulile. However, key players such as Khuliso Mudau and Teboho Mokoena were notably absent from the matchday squad. SuperSport United, on the other hand, handed league debuts to several new faces: Nokutenda Mangezi, Pogiso Sanoka, Nyiko Mobbie, and Vincent Pule.
The game kicked off with an early chance for Sundowns as Shalulile, keen to make an impact, unleashed a snap shot on goal after a well-coordinated team move. His effort narrowly missed the target, setting the tone for what would be an engaging contest. Three minutes later, SuperSport had their own opportunity when Neo Rapoo fired a challenging shot from a difficult angle, which was expertly saved by Sundowns’ goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams.
As the first half progressed, both teams continued to create opportunities. SuperSport’s Ricardo Goss was tested several times, first having to deny Lucas Ribeiro from close range and then making a crucial save against Iqraam Rayners. Despite these attempts, neither side could break the deadlock before the interval, with both teams showing resilience in defense.
Second Half Resurgence and Key Substitutions
The second half saw Mamelodi Sundowns make strategic changes to their lineup. Coach Rhulani Mokwena introduced Aubrey Modiba, Tashreeq Matthews, and Themba Zwane, replacing Shalulile, Lebohang Maboe, and Marcelo Allende. These substitutions would prove pivotal.
In the 62nd minute, Sundowns’ persistence paid off when Rayners capitalized on Ribeiro’s precise flick to score the opening goal from inside the penalty area. This goal injected momentum into Sundowns, who continued to press for more. Just five minutes later, Ribeiro extended Sundowns’ lead with a delightful finish, deftly lifting the ball over the advancing Goss after a well-timed run into the penalty area.
Ribeiro remained a constant threat and came close to adding a third goal, but his point-blank effort was cleared off the line. Despite SuperSport’s efforts to regain control, Sundowns managed the game expertly, ensuring their victory.
Final Whistle and Line-ups
As the final whistle blew, Mamelodi Sundowns emerged as clear winners, showcasing their superiority in the Tshwane Derby. The result not only provided them with a crucial three points but also reaffirmed their status as a dominant force in South African football.
Confirmed Line-ups:
Mamelodi Sundowns: Williams, Lebusa, Coetzee, Kekana, Morena, Tiwani, Maboe, Allende, Ribeiro, Rayners, Shalulile
Subs: Onyango, Khoza, Aubaas, Modiba, Mkhulise, Zwane, Mabena, Matthews, Lorch
SuperSport United: Goss, Sanoka, Rapoo, Hlatshwayo, Okon, Mobbie, Mangezi, Ndlovu, Ayer, Pule, Dzvukamanja
Subs: Mbanjwa, Baloyi, Baliti, Moralo, Mbangossoum, Lakay, Poggenpoel, Mahlangu, Magidigidi
In summary, Sundowns’ victory in this derby highlighted their tactical prowess and depth, while SuperSport United will need to reassess their approach following this setback. The result not only boosts Sundowns’ title ambitions but also sets a high benchmark for their performance in the season ahead.