Mamelodi Sundowns have booked their place in the next round of the MTN8 after edging Polokwane City 3-2 in a dramatic quarter-final encounter that went all the way into extra time.
The Brazilians had to dig deep after falling behind early, but their attacking quality and determination eventually carried them through a five-goal thriller.
Sundowns Fight Back After Early Setback
Polokwane City made the perfect start, taking the lead in the 7th minute through Dlamini and immediately putting Sundowns under pressure.
The early setback did not shake the reigning South African giants, who responded strongly and turned the game around before half-time.
Mokoena restored parity in the 21st minute before Van Wyk completed Sundowns’ comeback ten minutes later.
The Brazilians went into the break with a 2-1 advantage, but Polokwane City refused to go away.
Polokwane City Level the Contest
The second half produced another twist when Molokwane found the back of the net in the 60th minute to bring the score level at 2-2.
With neither side able to find a winner during the remaining regulation time, the quarter-final headed into extra time.
The tension continued to rise as both teams searched for the decisive goal.
Mailula Becomes the Hero
With the match heading towards its final stages, Cassius Mailula delivered the decisive moment.
The Bafana Bafana forward scored in the 113th minute, putting Sundowns back in front and sending the Masandawana supporters into celebration.
Mailula’s goal proved to be the difference as Sundowns held on during the closing stages to secure a 3-2 victory.
Final Score
MTN8 Quarter-Final
Mamelodi Sundowns 3-2 Polokwane City
⚽ Mokoena 21′
⚽ Van Wyk 31′
⚽ Cassius Mailula 113′
Polokwane City
⚽ Dlamini 7′
⚽ Molokwane 60′
Sundowns March On
The victory sees Mamelodi Sundowns progress to the next round of the MTN8, keeping their hopes of lifting the prestigious knockout trophy alive.
It was also a memorable night for Mailula, who recently returned to Sundowns after spending three years abroad. His extra-time winner could prove to be an important early moment in his second chapter with the club.
Polokwane City deserve credit for pushing Sundowns all the way and twice recovering from setbacks, but the Brazilians ultimately had the final say.
Five goals, extra time and plenty of drama—Sundowns are through!
