Mamelodi Sundowns edged past a gallant AmaZulu in a hard-fought Betway Premiership encounter at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Tuesday, thanks to a late header from Iqraam Rayners.

The game appeared destined for a goalless draw until Rayners expertly headed home in added time from Teboho Mokoena’s perfectly delivered free-kick. This decisive goal arrived shortly after Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams was sent off for a reckless block outside the penalty area.

The victory extends Sundowns’ lead at the top of the table to 27 points after 10 matches, much to the delight of coach Miguel Cardoso. This was Cardoso’s third consecutive victory since replacing Manqoba Mngqithi, with each match decided by a solitary goal, having previously defeated Raja Casablanca and Stellenbosch FC.

Sundowns started brightly, with Khuliso Mudau spurning an early opportunity when he blazed over from close range after being set up by Lucas Ribeiro Costa.

AmaZulu, however, showed significant improvement under co-coaches Vusi Vilakazi and Arthur Zwane, displaying a more proactive approach compared to their previous struggles under Pablo Franco Martin. Usuthu effectively bypassed Sundowns’ high-pressing tactics, catching the reigning champions off guard.

However, Sundowns remained a threat on the counter-attack. Aubrey Modiba delivered a dangerous cross, but Mudau squandered another chance, firing over the bar shortly before halftime.

The second half saw Sundowns reduced to ten men when Williams was sent off for handling the ball outside the penalty area. Despite the setback, they continued to pose a threat, with Rayners narrowly being flagged offside for an apparent goal.

AmaZulu also had their moments, with Rowan Human’s shot striking the crossbar.

Despite being a man down, Sundowns remained dangerous. Mudau and Rayners combined well, but Mudau lost his footing at the crucial moment. Costa also squandered an opportunity, with his shot blocked by Taariq Fielies.

Ultimately, it was Rayners who proved to be the hero once again, scoring the winning goal in added time to secure another hard-fought victory for Sundowns.

Pic courtesy of Inja Ka Moya