Mamelodi Sundowns took another significant step toward retaining their Betway Premiership crown after a clinical 3-0 victory over Polokwane City at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria on Sunday.
While the scoreline suggested dominance, Masandawana were made to work for all three points, with moments of vulnerability balanced by their trademark efficiency in front of goal.
Iqraam Rayners breaks the deadlock
After sustained pressure, Mamelodi Sundowns finally opened the scoring in the 33rd minute through Iqraam Rayners.
A precise delivery from Teboho Mokoena found Rayners between defenders, allowing the striker to guide a well-placed header into the corner.
The goal ended Rayners’ five-match scoring drought and marked his 12th league goal of the season, strengthening his pursuit of the Golden Boot.
Tashreeq Matthews adds breathing room
The Brazilians doubled their advantage in the 56th minute when Tashreeq Matthews produced a moment of quality.
Collecting possession on the left side of the box, Matthews cut inside before curling an excellent effort into the far corner for his sixth league goal of the campaign.
Polokwane were handed a lifeline after Aubrey Modiba conceded a penalty for handball, but captain Puleng Marema’s attempt sailed over the bar after he slipped during the strike.
The miss proved costly, extinguishing the visitors’ best opportunity to shift momentum.
Nuno Santos seals it
Returning from injury, Nuno Santos made an immediate impact from the bench, combining neatly with Brayan Leon before slotting home Mamelodi Sundowns’ third goal.
His contribution highlighted his growing importance ahead of the club’s upcoming two-legged CAF Champions League final.
Title race
The victory extended Mamelodi Sundowns’ unbeaten league run in the Betway Premiership to 18 matches and opened a five-point lead at the summit, although closest rivals Orlando Pirates have a game in hand.
With fixtures against Kaizer Chiefs, Siwelele FC and TS Galaxy still to come, Mamelodi Sundowns still control their own destiny.
If they win their three remaining matches, the Tshwane giants will once again be crowned champions – for the ninth time in a row and 16th overall – and on current form, few would bet against them.
Updated Betway Premiership standings
