PRETORIA – Mamelodi Sundowns took a significant stride towards defending their Betway Premiership title on Sunday afternoon, delivering a scintillating 3-0 victory over Polokwane City at Loftus Versfeld Stadium under the bright sun.
Fresh off a narrow 1-0 win against the same opponents just days earlier, the Brazilians showed no signs of fatigue. Instead, they produced a tactical masterclass, moving five points clear of Orlando Pirates at the top of the table.
Rayners Breaks the Resistance
The first half unfolded as expected, with Sundowns controlling possession while Polokwane City, intent on striking on the counter, kept a compact defensive shape. For the first half-hour, the Polokwane backline held firm. However, the deadlock was eventually broken in the 32nd minute.
A swift, intricate passing move saw Sundowns carve through the midfield. Iqraam Rayners found space between the center-backs and clinically finished past the goalkeeper, calming the nerves of the home crowd.
Matthews and Late Flourish Seal the Deal
Polokwane City emerged from the break with more attacking intent, but their ambition proved to be their undoing. As they pushed higher up the pitch, Sundowns expertly exploited the gaps.
In the 55th minute, a high press from the Brazilians forced a turnover in Polokwane’s half. Tashreeq Matthews pounced on the opportunity, calmly slotting home to make it 2-0 and effectively end the contest.
Despite a late surge from Polokwane, Sundowns’ defense, led by the ever-impressive Ronwen Williams, stood strong. A third goal in the dying moments added the finishing touches to the performance, further underscoring their dominance. As SuperSport commentators aptly put it, this was “the hallmark of champions.”
The Title Race State of Play
With only three matches left in the 2025/26 season, Sundowns’ position is becoming increasingly difficult to challenge. Currently, they sit five points clear of Orlando Pirates, as they edge closer to securing another championship.
What’s Next?
Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso will no doubt be pleased with the squad’s depth, especially considering the injuries to key players like Mothobi Mvala and Arthur Sales. With their focus now shifting to upcoming CAF Champions League commitments, the Brazilians look well on their way to yet another successful season.
Polokwane City, meanwhile, remains in 6th place and is still firmly in the hunt for an MTN8 qualification spot.
