Mailula Seals Sundowns’ MTN8 Semi-Final Spot On Return

Cassius Mailula came off the bench to rescue Mamelodi Sundowns as they edged a gallantly fighting Polokwane City 3-2 after extra time to book their place in the MTN8 semi-finals at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday.

The game went into extra time after the two sides were locked at 2-2 at the end of 90 minutes, but Mailula marked his return to Sundowns in style, coming off the bench to score the winning goal.

Sundowns joined MTN8 kings Orlando Pirates in the semi-finals after the Buccaneers beat Durban City at Orlando Amstel Arena earlier on Saturday.

It was an emotional day for Sundowns before kick-off, as the club officially welcomed the return of Mailula while also retiring the number 8 jersey previously worn by Jayden Adams.

Pirates, who have won the MTN8 in each of the last four seasons and eliminated Sundowns in the semi-finals last season, also booked their place in the last four after beating 10-man Durban City at Orlando Amstel Arena.

Polokwane City stunned Sundowns by taking an early lead, with Bonginkosi Dlamini firing a stunning strike across Ronwen Williams and into the far corner.

The goal sparked Sundowns into action, and Polokwane struggled to contain the response. Teboho Mokoena equalised in the 21st minute with a left-footed strike from inside the box that found the far corner.

New signing Antonio Van Wyk then completed the turnaround 10 minutes later, putting Sundowns 2-1 ahead.

However, Rise and Shine fought back once again after Sundowns failed to clear their lines. Tidimalo Molokwane levelled the scores in the 60th minute after rounding Williams before calmly finishing into an empty net.

With the score locked at 2-2, the match appeared destined for extra time, just like the earlier MTN8 quarter-final between Pirates and Durban City.

Sundowns introduced more attacking firepower in search of the winner, bringing on returning striker Mailula and Lebo Mothiba.

Coach Miguel Cardoso then turned to Themba Zwane, and the veteran midfielder made an immediate impact, supplying his returning teammate with the opportunity to seal victory.

Mailula made no mistake, finding the back of the net to complete Sundowns’ comeback and send them through to the MTN8 semi-finals on his return to the club.