R62 million-signing shines for Masandawana! Mamelodi Sundowns on the brink of another PSL title after convincing win over Stellenbosch FC

To make life easy for themselves, the Brazilians raced to a 3-0 lead inside the first 18 minutes.

It started with Lucas Ribeiro Costa firing from an indirect free-kick just six minutes into the match for his 14th Premier Soccer League goal of the season.

Ribeiro then set up Iqraam Rayners, who easily finished on 12 minutes before Arthur Sales' shot from just inside the box was deflected into the net by Thabo Moloisane in the 18th minute.

The 3-0 win saw Masandawana extend their PSL lead to 15 points ahead of second-placed Orlando Pirates and they now just need a point from two league games to be crowned this season's champions.

On the other hand, Stellenbosch remain fourth with 23 points fewer than Sundowns.

Arthur Sales, who is Sundowns' record signing (R62 million), was a constant threat to Stellenbosch's defence.

The lanky attacker's incisive mobility and smart link-up play created problems for the visyors and he grabbed a goal

Sunday's result was a big setback for Steve Barker's Stellenbosch, who are bidding for a top-three finish.

It was a match from which they needed just a point to remove Sekhukhune United from position three on the table.

The Brazilians will be back in action on Wednesday when they visit Chippa United at Buffalo City Stadium for a match that could be confirmed as this season's champions should they at least collect a point.

But Stellenbosch will not be involved in midweek football and will only be back next Saturday when they host SuperSport United as they continue their top-three bid.