Arrows Extend Sundowns’ Bizarre MTN8 First-Leg Curse

Golden Arrows hold a 1-0 advantage over Mamelodi Sundowns after securing victory in the MTN8 semifinal first leg at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

The Brazilians’ struggles to win the first leg of an MTN8 semifinal continued, extending a remarkable run that has now lasted 18 years. Sundowns last won the first leg of an MTN8 semifinal in 2008, when they beat SuperSport United 2-1 in the Tshwane Derby, with Jorge Acuña and Surprise Moriri scoring the goals.

Sundowns dominated the first half but were unable to make their pressure count, while Arrows found the breakthrough before the break. Reigning Betway Premiership top scorer Junior Dion gave the visitors the lead after being set up by Khulekani Shezi, who scored the winning goal in Arrows’ quarterfinal victory over Kaizer Chiefs.

Arrows suffered a setback earlier in the first half when goalkeeper Edward Maova picked up a knee injury and was replaced by Thakasani Mbanjwa.

Miguel Cardoso’s side started the second half strongly and continued to push for an equaliser, but they were unable to find a way through. Arrows remained solid defensively, while Mbanjwa made several important saves to keep his side in front and preserve their advantage.

Both Sundowns and Arrows are now hoping to win the MTN8 title for the second time in 18 years. Arrows last lifted the trophy in 2009 after beating Ajax Cape Town in the final.

Sundowns, meanwhile, last won the competition in 2021, when they defeated Cape Town City in the final. Interestingly, they also faced Arrows in the semifinal that year, with the first leg ending in a 1-1 draw before Sundowns secured a 3-0 victory in the second leg.

This was the second MTN8 semifinal first leg, with the first taking place on Saturday when defending champions Orlando Pirates claimed a 1-0 victory over Sekhukhune United in Polokwane.

Sundowns and Arrows will meet again next Sunday in Durban for the second leg, with the winner booking their place in the final. Before then, both teams will be in midweek Betway Premiership action, with Sundowns facing AmaZulu and Arrows taking on Stellenbosch.