Mamelodi Sundowns Achieve New PSL Milestone Following Victory Over Marumo Gallants
Mamelodi Sundowns have etched their name in history once again as they secured an impressive 2-0 victory against Marumo Gallants in Pretoria on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in the Betway Premiership. With this triumph, Sundowns have extended their unbeaten streak at home to an astonishing 31 matches, affirming their dominance in South African football.
This win, which took place during the third matchweek of the season, propelled Sundowns to joint leadership of the league table, alongside other formidable teams such as Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs, and AmaZulu. So far, they have accrued a total of seven points from their opening three fixtures, showcasing a promising start to their campaign.
A Historic Goal from Malibongwe Khoza
Opening the scoring for Sundowns was 22-year-old defender Malibongwe Khoza, who found the back of the net in the 21st minute. Demonstrating exceptional technique, Khoza volleyed a well-placed cross from Bathusi Aubaas into the goal from 12 yards, despite the presence of defenders on the line. This goal marks Khoza’s fourth in his professional career, highlighting his unexpected, yet valuable contributions from the defensive lineup.
His previous goals include a noteworthy strike against Richards Bay in the last league season, as well as successful shots in the Nedbank Cup and the CAF Champions League matches, illustrating his growing presence in the team’s offensive plays.
Cassius Mailula’s Scoring Streak Continues
Adding to the excitement, forward Cassius Mailula scored another stunning goal, marking his third in just ten days since rejoining Sundowns. A brilliant backheel assist from Brayan Leon set Mailula up perfectly, allowing him to curl the ball into the net from just outside the penalty area. This goal not only showcased his skill but also solidified his excellent form this season, bringing his tally to 11 league goals from 21 appearances.
Moreover, considering all competitions, Mailula has netted 19 goals, further enhancing his prolific scoring record, with an average of finding the net every 103 minutes. His remarkable performance certainly raises questions about his potential selection for the upcoming Bafana Bafana squad.
Injury Concerns for the National Team
On a troubling note for the Bafana Bafana, the upcoming national team coach may face some hurdles as key players suffer from injuries. Notably, Sundowns’ right-back Khuliso Mudau limped off during the first half of the match, raising concerns ahead of the national side’s qualification campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Bafana Bafana are set to face Guinea in a pivotal home match next month, making the fitness of Mudau critical as there are few viable alternatives to fill his role in defense.
Setting Records in the PSL
With this latest home game, Sundowns have set a new PSL record, surpassing the previous benchmark of 30 consecutive home league matches set by Kaizer Chiefs more than two decades ago. It is noteworthy that Sundowns have not tasted defeat in their own stadium since the final match of the 2023/24 season against Cape Town City, where they lost 1-0—this match being their sole loss for that entire campaign.
Over the past four years, the team has displayed unparalleled resilience, recording only one home league defeat in an astonishing 60 matches (W51 D8). Although a home victory against Royal AM from the season before last was later annulled due to the club’s financial struggles, Sundowns had rightfully earned that win on the field.
Renowned sports journalist Nick Said, who has been dedicated to covering African sports for nearly thirty years, concludes this update from Cape Town, South Africa. His insights provide a deeper understanding of the pulsating excitement that surrounds the Betway Premiership and the talented players emerging within the league.
