Mamelodi Sundowns vs TS Galaxy
By Sello Masilo
Mamelodi Sundowns’ perfect run in the 2024/25 Betway Premiership came to an unexpected halt as TS Galaxy secured a dramatic 1-0 victory at Mbombela Stadium on 11 February 2025. The crucial goal, scored just before halftime by Kamogelo Sebelebele, marked a significant upset in the league, sending shockwaves through the competition.
TS Galaxy Ends Sundowns’ Unbeaten Streak
Coming into the match, Mamelodi Sundowns were the undisputed leaders of the Betway Premiership, boasting a 10-match winning streak and remaining unbeaten in 16 games. However, TS Galaxy, known for their resilience and strong defensive structure, delivered a masterclass in counter-attacking football to stun the visitors.
The match was characterised by Sundowns’ dominance in possession, but TS Galaxy’s disciplined defence ensured that the Pretoria giants could not convert their advantage into goals. The only goal of the match came in the 44th minute, when Sebelebele found the back of the net following a well-placed pass from Dženan Zajmović, sending the home fans into wild celebrations.
First Half: TS Galaxy Stuns the League Leaders
Mamelodi Sundowns Dominate Possession
The match started as expected, with Mamelodi Sundowns controlling the ball and dictating the tempo. The visitors held 71% possession in the opening 30 minutes, trying to break down TS Galaxy’s compact defensive shape. However, despite their superior possession, they struggled to create clear-cut opportunities, often being forced to take long-range shots.
TS Galaxy, on the other hand, remained disciplined, absorbing pressure and looking to hit Sundowns on the counter-attack. The first real chance of the game fell to the home side in the 27th minute, but a shot from Zajmović sailed over the bar.
TS Galaxy’s Defensive Resilience
Sundowns continued to press, but their attack lacked precision. The match saw multiple fouls and yellow cards, disrupting the game’s rhythm. Mamelodi’s Kegan Johannes was booked in the 21st minute for a late challenge, one of many fouls committed in a scrappy first half.
With five minutes remaining in the first half, TS Galaxy saw their moment. A swift build-up from midfield resulted in Zajmović delivering a pinpoint pass to Sebelebele, who calmly slotted the ball past goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, making it 1-0 to the hosts.
Second Half: Sundowns Fail to Break Through
Sundowns Ramp Up the Pressure
The second half began with Sundowns pushing for an equaliser, making offensive substitutions. Iqraam Rayners and Thapelo Morena were introduced to add pace and creativity to the attack. The visitors camped in TS Galaxy’s half, continuously launching waves of attacks.
Despite their dominance in possession (75%), Sundowns found themselves frustrated by TS Galaxy’s defensive wall. The home side maintained their shape, making crucial interceptions and clearing every dangerous ball.
TS Galaxy Holds On
In the 77th minute, TS Galaxy’s coach Ćedomir Đoinčević made another tactical change, bringing in speedy attackers to exploit counter-attacks. With Sundowns committing all their players forward, the home side almost doubled their lead in the 87th minute, but Zajmović’s shot was blocked at the last moment.
With four minutes of stoppage time added, Sundowns threw everything forward, but TS Galaxy remained disciplined and held on for a historic victory.
Key Player Performances
Kamogelo Sebelebele (TS Galaxy) – Match Winner
The young midfielder produced the match-winning moment, showing composure in front of goal to secure three vital points for his team.
Dženan Zajmović (TS Galaxy) – Assist King
Zajmović played a crucial role in attack, providing the assist for the only goal and nearly scoring himself in the 87th minute.
Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns) – Unfortunate Goalkeeper
Despite conceding, Williams made two crucial saves to keep the scoreline at 1-0.
TS Galaxy’s Defensive Line – Unbreakable
The entire defensive unit, including goalkeeper Ira Eliezer Tapé, was instrumental in ensuring Sundowns could not find the net.
Post-Match Reactions
Ćedomir Đoinčević (TS Galaxy Coach)
TS Galaxy’s head coach praised his side’s effort, saying:
“The boys executed the game plan perfectly. Beating a team of Sundowns’ calibre is a testament to their hard work. We defended well, took our chance, and deserved the victory.”Miguel Cardoso (Mamelodi Sundowns Coach)
Sundowns’ coach accepted the defeat and highlighted areas for improvement:
“We dominated possession but failed to capitalise on our chances. It’s a learning experience. We need to be more clinical in front of goal. Credit to TS Galaxy for their defensive discipline.”What This Means for the League Standings
TS Galaxy’s Rise
With this victory, TS Galaxy climbs to fourth place, accumulating 25 points from 17 matches. They continue their impressive form, having secured back-to-back victories.
Sundowns Still in Control
Despite the loss, Mamelodi Sundowns remain league leaders with 42 points from 16 matches. However, their 10-match winning streak comes to an end, and they will now need to regroup ahead of their next fixture.
Historical Context
Mamelodi Sundowns had dominated this fixture in recent years. Before this match, the two teams had met nine times, with Sundowns winning six and TS Galaxy winning only once. This historic victory marks just the second time TS Galaxy has beaten Sundowns.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next?
• TS Galaxy will face Stellenbosch FC next, looking to continue their climb up the table.
• Mamelodi Sundowns will take on Marumo Gallants, aiming to bounce back from this rare defeat.
Looking Ahead
TS Galaxy will aim to build on this momentum as they prepare to face Stellenbosch FC in their next fixture. Maintaining their current form could see them challenging for higher positions as the season progresses.
Mamelodi Sundowns will look to regroup and address the shortcomings evident in this match. With their next game against Marumo Gallants, they will be eager to return to winning ways and reinforce their lead at the summit of the table.
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