Mamelodi Sundowns
By Sello Masilo
Mamelodi Sundowns extended their dominance in the DStv Premiership with a commanding 4-0 victory over Golden Arrows at the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium on Saturday, 2 February 2025. The win reinforces their position at the top of the table as they continue their title defence in emphatic fashion.
Match Overview: Sundowns Display Their Championship Quality
Mamelodi Sundowns delivered yet another clinical performance, dismantling Golden Arrows with a four-goal masterclass that demonstrated their attacking prowess and tactical superiority.
The Brazilian giants opened the scoring through Lucas Ribeiro Costa from the penalty spot in the 44th minute, while Peter Shalulile netted a second-half brace in the 65th and 80th minutes. Teboho Mokoena then sealed the dominant victory with a stunning long-range strike in the 85th minute.
Golden Arrows, despite some promising moments, struggled to cope with Sundowns’ relentless pressure, and their efforts to break through the home team’s well-organised defence proved futile.
First Half: Sundowns Dictate Play, Ribeiro Breaks the Deadlock
Mamelodi Sundowns wasted no time in asserting their dominance. From the opening whistle, the defending champions controlled possession, dictating the tempo of the game and pushing Golden Arrows deep into their half.
The home side created several chances in the early stages, with Lucas Ribeiro Costa and Iqraam Rayners coming close to scoring. However, Arrows’ goalkeeper Ismail Watenga pulled off some crucial saves to keep the visitors in the game.
The breakthrough finally came in the 44th minute when Peter Shalulile was fouled inside the box by Watenga, leading to a penalty. Lucas Ribeiro Costa stepped up and calmly converted from the spot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way and putting Sundowns 1-0 ahead just before halftime.
Arrows had little to show in the first half, struggling to move the ball forward under constant pressure from Sundowns’ high pressing game.
Second Half: Sundowns Turn Up the Heat
As the second half kicked off, Sundowns continued their relentless attacking display, and it wasn’t long before they doubled their lead.
In the 65th minute, Peter Shalulile capitalised on a brilliant assist from Iqraam Rayners, firing a low-driven shot into the bottom left corner to make it 2-0.
Golden Arrows attempted to respond by making tactical substitutions, bringing on Knox Mutizwa and Menzi Masuku to add attacking options. However, Sundowns’ defensive setup remained impenetrable, with Grant Kekana and Mothobi Mvala ensuring that Arrows found no way through.
Sundowns’ third goal came in the 80th minute, when Shalulile pounced on a loose ball inside the box, tucking home a simple finish after a well-worked move involving Lucas Ribeiro Costa.
The final goal of the match was a moment of brilliance from Teboho Mokoena, who unleashed a powerful long-range shot from outside the box in the 85th minute. The strike curled past the outstretched arms of Watenga, securing an emphatic 4-0 win for the Brazilians.
Key Performers: Shalulile Shines, Mokoena Dominates Midfield
Peter Shalulile (Mamelodi Sundowns)
⭐ Performance Rating: 9/10
• Scored two goals and played a pivotal role in attack.
• Constantly threatened the Arrows’ defence with his movement.
• Assisted the penalty decision that led to the opening goal.
Teboho Mokoena (Mamelodi Sundowns)
⭐ Performance Rating: 9/10
• Controlled the midfield with his composed passing and defensive work rate.
• Scored a stunning goal to cap off the victory.
• Created multiple attacking chances with his long-range passing.
Lucas Ribeiro Costa (Mamelodi Sundowns)
⭐ Performance Rating: 8.5/10
• Scored from the penalty spot to open the scoring.
• Provided an assist for Shalulile’s second goal.
• Played a key role in linking midfield and attack.
Ismail Watenga (Golden Arrows)
⭐ Performance Rating: 6/10
• Despite conceding four goals, made important early saves.
• Struggled to organise his defence under Sundowns’ relentless pressure.
Golden Arrows’ Struggles: Defensive Issues Exposed
Golden Arrows failed to contain Sundowns’ high-intensity attack and struggled with defensive discipline.
• Too many fouls: Arrows picked up four yellow cards, including one for Keenan Phillips in the 93rd minute.
• Lack of attacking penetration: Only managed one shot on target all game.
• Struggled with Sundowns’ pressing: Could not retain possession under pressure.
Coach Mabhuti Khenyeza will need to address these defensive frailties if Arrows are to bounce back in their next fixture.
Tactical Analysis: How Sundowns Overpowered Arrows
• High Pressing Game: Sundowns closed down Arrows’ passing lanes early, forcing turnovers.
• Quick Transitions: The home side moved the ball quickly from defence to attack, overwhelming Arrows.
• Clinical Finishing: The Brazilians took their chances well, scoring four goals from five shots on target.
• Solid Defence: Despite attacking dominance, Sundowns maintained a solid defensive shape, allowing no clear-cut chances for Arrows.
Post-Match Reactions: Coaches Share Their Views
Rulani Mokwena (Mamelodi Sundowns Coach)
“I’m proud of how the team played today. We dominated from start to finish, and our finishing was excellent. We will continue working hard to maintain this momentum in the league.”Mabhuti Khenyeza (Golden Arrows Coach)
“Sundowns showed why they are the best team in the league. We struggled with their pace and movement, and we need to work on our defensive organisation for the next match.”League Standings: Sundowns Extend Lead at the Top
This comprehensive victory sees Mamelodi Sundowns strengthen their grip at the top of the DStv Premiership table:
Top Three Teams After This Matchday
1️⃣ Mamelodi Sundowns – 50 points (Played: 21, GD: +35)
2️⃣ Orlando Pirates – 42 points (Played: 22, GD: +18)
3️⃣ Kaizer Chiefs – 40 points (Played: 23, GD: +12)
Golden Arrows remain in 8th position with 31 points from 23 games.
What’s Next? Upcoming Fixtures
• Mamelodi Sundowns will face Cape Town City in their next league match on 10 February 2025.
• Golden Arrows will take on Stellenbosch FC on 9 February 2025, aiming to bounce back from this heavy defeat.
Final Thoughts: A Statement Win for the Champions
Mamelodi Sundowns once again proved why they are the best team in South African football, producing a dominant 4-0 victory over Golden Arrows.
This resounding win sends a strong message to their title rivals, reinforcing their intent to retain the DStv Premiership crown.
With Shalulile back in top form, Mokoena running the midfield, and Sundowns looking unstoppable, fans can expect more thrilling performances in the weeks ahead.
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