Mamelodi Sundowns were forced to settle for a 1–1 draw against Stellenbosch FC on Wednesday night at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, dropping crucial points in the Betway Premiership title race.
Fresh from their CAF Champions League triumph over Esperance, Sundowns reinstated several key figures into the starting XI, including Grant Kekana, Khulumani Ndamane, Aubrey Modiba, Marcelo Allende, Katlego Ntsabeleng, and Iqraam Rayners. Stellenbosch, meanwhile, welcomed back Omega Mdaka and Langelihle Phili.
The hosts made their early dominance count in the 27th minute when Katlego Ntsabeleng capped off a slick attacking move, calmly finishing from an Arthur Sales assist to give Masandawana the lead.
Stellenbosch showed resilience in response, with Titus coming close to equalising, only to be denied by a superb save from Ronwen Williams, who once again underlined his importance between the posts.
Sundowns thought they had doubled their advantage early in the second half, but Tashreeq Matthews saw his effort ruled out for offside as the home side continued to dictate the tempo.
Both benches turned to changes just after the hour mark. Stellenbosch introduced Cupido and Ibraheem Jabaar, while Sundowns responded with the experienced duo of Bryan Leon and Themba Zwane. Later, Jabaar made way for Tshegofatso Mabasa as the visitors searched for a way back into the contest.
Their persistence paid off in the 84th minute when Stellenbosch were awarded a penalty following Khulumani Ndamane’s challenge on Chumani Butsaka. Mabasa initially saw his spot-kick saved by Williams but reacted quickest to convert the rebound and restore parity.
The drama continued in stoppage time as Mabasa found the net again, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside, sparing Sundowns’ blushes.
Stellenbosch FC coach praised his side’s resilience after the late equaliser, saying:
It was a fantastic performance from us. We had a clear plan and created the best chances in the game. At 1–0, the longer it went on, I always felt we’d get back into it. We knew we’d have one chance, and we took it. Nobody gave us a chance, but the young players were outstanding.
The result leaves Sundowns second on the table, dealing a blow to their title ambitions as they momentarily lose ground in the race. Stellenbosch, currently ninth, remain comfortably above the relegation zone but still face a challenge to break into the top eight.
Mamelodi Sundowns head coach felt his side were unfortunate with key moments, saying:
There are a lot of traps along the way until the end.
He also pointed to a crucial incident involving Tashreeq Matthews, adding:
From what I saw, and even on TV, it’s clear. If there was VAR, he wouldn’t be offside. It’s a very tight margin, but in my view, he is not offside.
Sundowns will next travel to face Richards Bay on Sunday, while Stellenbosch are set to take on Polokwane City at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium.
Images: Supersport Football