Mamelodi Sundowns
By Sello Masilo
Mamelodi Sundowns endured a challenging night in Morocco, succumbing 1-0 to Raja Casablanca in a tempestuous CAF Champions League Group C match on Saturday. The fixture was marked by intense physicality, resulting in two Sundowns players receiving red cards, which significantly influenced the game’s outcome.
Match Overview
The encounter at Stade Mohamed V was fiercely contested from the outset. Sundowns midfielder Bathusi Aubaas was dismissed late in the first half following a reckless studs-up challenge on Raja’s Younes Najjari. This incident left the South African side with a numerical disadvantage for the remainder of the match.
Despite being a man down, Sundowns displayed resilience, attempting to contain Raja’s advances. However, their efforts were compromised further when fullback Khuliso Mudau received a red card during stoppage time after an altercation involving Raja forward Nawfel Zerhouni.
Raja Casablanca capitalized on their advantage, breaking the deadlock in the second minute of first-half stoppage time. Centre-back Benaissa Benamar found the back of the net from close range, a goal that stood despite Sundowns’ appeals for offside.
Implications for Group C Standings
This result marks Sundowns’ first loss in the group stage, while Raja secured their inaugural victory, revitalizing their campaign. The current Group C standings are as follows:
Position Team Points
1 FAR Rabat 8
2 Mamelodi Sundowns 5
3 Raja Casablanca 4
4 Maniema Union 3
FAR Rabat maintained their lead in the group with a 2-0 home victory against Maniema Union, further intensifying the competition for the top two qualifying spots.
Looking Ahead
Raja Casablanca’s prospects for advancing to the quarterfinals have been bolstered by this win. Victories in their upcoming matches against FAR Rabat and Maniema Union could secure their progression. Meanwhile, Mamelodi Sundowns will need to regroup and strategize effectively to regain momentum in their pursuit of continental glory.
The next round of fixtures promises to be decisive, with Sundowns aiming to overcome this setback and Raja striving to build on their newfound momentum.
🔴Central News Weekly Edition 087🔴 Download the Latest Edition | Top Story: “Building ‘The Ngwathe We Want’:
Dr Mothamaha Drives Cost-Effective
Solutions with New Fleet Acquisitions”
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube