Mamelodi Sundowns launched their Betway Premiership campaign with a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over TS Galaxy at Mbombela Stadium, courtesy of a late double from substitute Sphelele Mkhulise.
Under the guidance of new head coach Bernard Parker and following a major squad overhaul, TS Galaxy proved to be a formidable opponent. Despite falling behind early to a 7th-minute Brayan León penalty—won after Tashreeq Matthews was fouled in the box—the hosts fought back aggressively. Victor Letsoalo turned the game on its head with a sharp near-post finish in the 36th minute and a towering 77th-minute header, putting the Rockets 2-1 ahead.
With time running out on Miguel Cardoso’s side, Mkhulise came off the bench to flip the script. The midfielder scrambled home an 88th-minute equalizer before tapping in the winner from close range in the 93rd minute following a swift combination from Matthews and Khuliso Mudau.
Match Breakdown
- Early Penalty: Brayan León put Sundowns ahead in the 7th minute after Tashreeq Matthews was brought down inside the box.
- Letsoalo Double: Victor Letsoalo restored parity before half-time and added a second in the 77th minute via a precise Mvelase free-kick.
- Mkhulise Magic: Mkhulise struck twice in final minutes (88′, 90+3′) to secure all three points for Masandawana.
