Super-sub Peter Shalulile underlines his worth as Namibian striker inspires Mamelodi Sundowns to victory over AS Maniema Union in Caf Champions League outing

Mamelodi Sundowns boosted their chances making the Caf Champions League knockout phase after securing a 2-1 win over AS Maniema Union on Saturday afternoon.

Masandawana were uncharacteristically off at the Pentecost Martyrs Stadium in Kinshasa.

They were caught in a counter-attack in the 38th minute, and Jephte Kitambala did well to hold off the defenders before beating Ronwen Williams at his near post.

Even after the pause, Masandawana couldn't get themselves into their usual best. Namibia international Peter Shalulile was introduced in the 80th minute in place of Thapelo Morena and three minutes later, he headed in Teboho Mokoena's high ball past the goalkeeper.

When it looked like the game would end in a draw, the experienced forward was at it again, controlling a long ball before cutting inside and forcing Exaucia Moanda to put the ball into his net.

The late win ensured the Brazilians remain second on the table with eight points, the same as leaders AS FAR Rabat who will play Raja Casablanca in their next game.

This goes to Peter Shalulie who salvaged a point for his team.

He was introduced with barely 10 minutes to go, but within three minutes he had already found the back of the net with a good finish after Teboho Mokoena's good pass. He then forced Moanda to score an own goal that won it for his team.

Shalulile's contribution will go a long way in boosting his confidence after his struggles for game time owing to stiff competition from other players.

Maniema coach Papy Kimoto must be reeling in pain after seeing his team concede two late goals.

He was close to getting into the second position and probably defied the odds and helped Maniema get into the knockout phase for the first time in their history, but everything came down crashing.

Masandawana are in a good position to advance to the quarter-final but they will have to dig deep at home against AS FAR Rabat.

The two sides drew 1-1 when they met earlier, but with the home-ground advantage, Downs might deliver.

For Maniema, their chances of progressing are over but they can take heart from their performance and hope to end it high against Raja Casablanca.