Back to winning ways! Iqraam Rayners and Tashreeq Matthews seal vital first Premier Soccer League victory for defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns over AmaZulu

AmaZulu entered the clash with confidence and nearly took an early lead when Tebogo Mashigo expertly set up Hendrick Ekstein, whose volley went just wide of Ronwen Williams’ goal.

Meanwhile, Sundowns took a patient approach in the first half, only testing the Usuthu goalkeeper Darren Johnson midway through the period when striker Arthur Sales saw his shot brilliantly saved. 

That pattern continued for the rest of the half, with AmaZulu’s defence holding firm to frustrate Sundowns’ attackers in the final third, as they headed into the halftime break deadlocked at 0-0.  

In the second half, Sundowns pushed for a breakthrough, which arrived in the 53rd minute with a brilliant team goal - Iqraam Rayners volleyed home the opener after Tashreeq Matthews set him up from a precise header.  

Matthews then wrapped up the win in stoppage time, securing a 2-0 victory and maximum points for Sundowns.

Arthur Sales was on song for Sundowns, creating chances for his teammates and battling fiercely to disrupt AmaZulu’s defence. 

The visitors missed key chances that could have altered the scoreline but ultimately failed to make a significant impact. 

The Brazilians now turn their attention to MTN8 action, facing Orlando Pirates in the semi-final first leg at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, 16 August, kick-off at 15:00 SA time.