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Nedbank Cup: Top-class Thembinkosi Lorch's brace sends Mamelodi Sundowns past Maritzburg United into the quarter-finals

Premier Soccer League

Mamelodi Sundowns FC

TS Galaxy

National First Division

Maritzburg United

Hungry Lions FC

Both teams commenced the game with remarkable intensity, showcasing determination and high pressure right from the start. However, their momentum was abruptly halted when the match was paused due to lighting after only 14 minutes of play. When the game resumed over an hour later, Sundowns faced challenges in reestablishing their fluidity, with their passing game failing to maintain its usual clinical precision. Meanwhile, Maritzburg's defence remained solid, leading to a halftime deadlock of 0-0. As the second half commenced, the Brazilians intensified their offensive efforts and ultimately succeeded in penetrating the resilient defence of Maritzburg in the 74th minute, with Thembinkosi Lorch finally breaking the deadlock. In the final minutes of action, Lorch bagged his brace as Sundowns secured a 2-0 win to progress to the Nedbank Cup quarter-final round.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Siphamandla Ncanana showcased a formidable presence in Maritzburg United's defence, playing a crucial role in ensuring his team remained competitive throughout the game by thwarting pivotal attacks from the home side.

THE MVP

Sundowns took 74 minutes to secure the lead despite dominating possession for the duration of the match. However, their lack of clinical finishing in front of goal was evident until Lorch’s brace.

THE BIG LOSER

Ahead of the upcoming Fifa international break, six Sundowns players are set to link up with <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-za/lists/bafana-bafana-dealt-double-blow-ex-kaizer-chiefs-star-siyabonga-ngezana-and-portugal-based-midfielder-sphephelo-sithole-withdraw-from-squad/blt259ce16bcee3ed5a#cs2a79b31272ca71fc" target="_blank">Bafana Bafana</a> for the three-nation friendly matches in Algeria. Meanwhile, the remaining members of the team will focus on preparations for their Caf Champions League quarter-final clash against Young Africans scheduled for March 30th.

WHAT NEXT FOR SUNDOWNS?

MATCH RATING (OUT OF FIVE): ⭐⭐⭐

Nedbank Cup: Top-class Thembinkosi Lorch's brace sends Mamelodi Sundowns past Maritzburg United into the quarter-finals | Goal.com South Africa

The 30-year-old came to the rescue for the Brazilians to secure a 2-0 win over the Team of Choice in the Last-16 on Sunday.

Nedbank Cup: Top-class Thembinkosi Lorch&apos;s brace sends Mamelodi Sundowns past Maritzburg United into the quarter-finals

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