Mamelodi Sundowns got the job done on Tuesday night, beating Marumo Gallants 1-0 to reach the quarter-finals of the Carling Knockout. The hard-fought win at Loftus Versfeld gave the Brazilians a much-needed boost after their surprise exit from the CAF Champions League.

Siyanda Ndlovu scored the only goal of the match in the 20th minute. Iqraam Rayners set him up with a clever pass, and Ndlovu finished from a tight angle into the top corner. It was a fine strike that left Gallants goalkeeper Kagiso Mlambo with little chance. The goal was Ndlovu’s third of the season and proved enough to settle a scrappy contest.

Coach Miguel Cardoso made several changes following the continental disappointment. Ricardo Goss started in goal, while players such as Mothobi Mvala, Fawaaz Basadien, Antonio van Wyk, Arthur Sales and Rayners were also handed starts. The side controlled much of the possession in the first half, but clear chances were limited. Gallants had an early opportunity when Siphosakhe Ntiya-Ntiya fired just wide, yet Sundowns stayed composed and struck first.

The second half saw Gallants show more intent. They pushed forward and forced Goss into important saves, including one just before the hour mark that kept the lead intact. Sundowns went close to adding a second when Nuno Santos, who came on later, combined with Rayners and shot narrowly wide. Ndlovu also had a header saved as the Brazilians looked to kill the game off.

In the end, the one-goal cushion was enough. Sundowns held firm until the final whistle and booked their place in the last eight. Gallants, who remain winless this season, exit the competition after a difficult campaign so far.

The result allows the Tshwane side to focus fully on domestic matters. They face the same opponents again soon in the Betway Premiership. For now, the Brazilians can take pride in a professional performance that keeps their cup hopes alive and puts the Champions League exit behind them. The quarter-final draw will decide their next opponents, but the job is done for now.

Source: https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2115161023309099016