Polokwane City and Mamelodi Sundowns battled to a 0-0 draw at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday. Rulani Mokwena’s Polokwane City side displayed impressive defense, holding off Mamelodi Sundowns’ attempts to score for the second consecutive game.
Despite Mokwena’s team creating more opportunities compared to their previous match against Cape Town City, they struggled to find the back of the net against a resilient Rise And Shine defense.
While Sundowns increased their lead at the top of the table to six points after SuperSport United’s surprising 3-1 loss to Richards Bay, Polokwane City dropped to ninth place in the standings, securing four points in their last two games of 2023.
Throughout the game, Sundowns dominated possession and spent substantial time in the opposition half but struggled to penetrate Polokwane City’s strong defense. Polokwane City used a similar approach to Cape Town City, effectively closing down the Brazilians and denying them space to maneuver.
Despite both teams having opportunities to score, particularly for Sundowns, who saw many chances in the first 45 minutes, neither side could find the breakthrough. Sundowns’ best chance came in the 13th minute and Polokwane City had their moments, but it was a stalemate as both sides fought hard to secure the win.
The draw was a testament to Polokwane City’s resilient and determined defensive performance, which left Sundowns unable to secure the three points to further extend their lead in the standings. With relentless efforts from both teams, the game ended in a goalless draw.
PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA – DECEMBER 30: Peter Shalulile of Sundowns during the DStv Premiership match between Mamelodi Sundowns and Polokwane City at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on December 30, 2023 in Pretoria, South Africa. (Photo by Lee Warren/Gallo Images)