Lorch’s Late Double Propels Sundowns into Nedbank Cup Quarterfinals

by centra
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The skies over the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium were electrified not only by the relentless weather but also by Thembinkosi Lorch’s decisive performance that secured Mamelodi Sundowns’ advance to the Nedbank Cup quarterfinals on Sunday night

Lorch’s Late Brace Sees Sundowns Clinch Quarterfinals Berth in Nedbank Cup

The skies over the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium were electrified not only by the relentless weather but also by Thembinkosi Lorch’s decisive performance that secured Mamelodi Sundowns’ advance to the Nedbank Cup quarterfinals on Sunday night. Despite challenging circumstances, Sundowns emerged victorious with a 2-0 win against a tenacious Maritzburg United side.

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Lorch's Late Double Propels Sundowns into Nedbank Cup Quarterfinals 7

An unexpected break occurred in the 13th minute when an intense storm suspended play, a brief intermission in what would be a tightly contested affair. Maritzburg United started stronger, confidently commanding the ball and pressing a Sundowns team that seemed momentarily shaken under pressure. Gaston Sirino and Marcelo Allende, usually so adept with the ball at their feet, found themselves struggling to connect passes as Maritzburg United’s defence stood firm and disciplined.

After play resumed, Sundowns gradually recovered their flowing style of football, but Maritzburg, dubbed the “Team of Choice,” was relentless in their resistance. Sundowns’ forays towards goal were met with staunch defending, and even distance attempts by Matias Esquivel and Bathusi Aubaas failed to trouble the scorekeepers.

It wasn’t until deep into the second half that Sundowns found their breakthrough. Poised on the edge of Maritzburg’s domain, Thembinkosi Lorch became the nexus of hope as he narrowly missed an opportunity in the 66th minute. But persistence paid off, as in the 73rd minute, it was the enterprising Lorch who sliced through the defence and sent a powerful drive into the net, giving Sundowns the lead and igniting a roar in the stadium.

Sundowns continued to search for the cooling balm of a second goal to quench the tension. During stoppage time, Lorch found himself perfectly positioned to capitalise on Kutlwano Letlhaku’s deflected effort, ensuring his team’s dominance was stamped with a clinical finish past a stranded Dumisani Msibi.

Reflecting on the match, an elated Lorch couldn’t hide his satisfaction, “We knew this wouldn’t be easy, and the weather made it even more challenging. It’s all about grabbing your moments, and tonight, we did just that.”

Opposing goalkeeper, Dumisani Msibi, was gracious in defeat, stating, “Sundowns showed their quality in the critical moments. We held our own, but Lorch was outstanding tonight.”

The final whistle sealed the fate of the encounter – Maritzburg United had held their own but ultimately fell to the might of Mamelodi Sundowns. Fans departed into the cool night air, leaving behind a pitch that bore witness to the relentless spirit of competition and the sheer brilliance of a resolute Sundowns geared to continue their quest for silverware.

Final Score:

Mamelodi Sundowns: (0) 2 (Lorch 73’, 94’)
Maritzburg United: (0) 0

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