Sundowns Make History As Rayners Fires Masandawana Into Carling Knockout Cup Semi-Finals

PRETORIA – Mamelodi Sundowns have become the first team to book their place in the Carling Knockout Cup semi-finals after securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Golden Arrows at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

Bafana Bafana striker Iqraam Rayners proved to be the difference between the two sides, scoring the decisive goal to send the Brazilians into the last four and keep their hopes of lifting another domestic trophy firmly alive.

The quarter-final encounter was played on Tuesday, 3 November 2026, with Sundowns looking to build on their recent positive results and continue their pursuit of silverware under head coach Miguel Cardoso.

The match was expected to be a challenging test for Masandawana, particularly against a Golden Arrows side that had already caused them problems earlier in the season. The two teams had previously met in the MTN8 semi-finals, where Sundowns had to fight back after losing the first leg before eventually progressing.

This time, the stakes were equally high, with a place in the Carling Knockout semi-finals on the line.

Sundowns entered the contest with confidence after recording an emphatic 4-1 victory over Durban City in the Betway Premiership. Cardoso also had to manage his squad carefully, with the club preparing for the upcoming CAF Super Cup assignment against USM Alger.

Despite making several changes to the starting line-up, the Brazilians remained determined to secure qualification and avoid another disappointing cup result.

Golden Arrows, meanwhile, were hoping to produce an upset under returning head coach Mandla Ncikazi. The KwaZulu-Natal side had shown their attacking potential earlier in the competition, including a convincing victory over Chippa United, but faced a difficult task against Sundowns.

The decisive moment came when Rayners found the back of the net, converting an opportunity created by Antonio Van Wyk. The goal proved enough to separate the teams and secure Sundowns’ place in the next round.

Rayners’ contribution once again highlighted his importance to the Brazilians. The striker has been a consistent attacking threat, and his ability to deliver in crucial moments continues to provide Cardoso with a reliable option in the final third.

For Sundowns, the victory represents another step towards adding the Carling Knockout Cup to their collection of trophies this season. The club has already enjoyed success in the MTN8 and will now turn its attention to the semi-final draw.

The result also provides a timely boost ahead of their continental assignment, offering the squad confidence and momentum as they prepare for another demanding fixture.

Golden Arrows, on the other hand, will be disappointed to exit the competition after a disciplined performance, but can now focus on their league campaign.

With Sundowns through to the last four, attention will shift to the remaining quarter-final matches to determine the other three semi-finalists.

Source; https://www.facebook.com/61574513770518/posts/122180139626817125/?app=fbl