Ten-man Mamelodi Sundowns brush aside Mpheni Home Defenders to join Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates in the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals

Mamelodi Sundowns progressed to the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals after a hard-fought 2-0 win over Mpheni Home Defenders in the Round of 16 match at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday afternoon. 

Masandawana took an early advantage after scoring just within the first ten minutes when Tashreeq Matthews put the ball in the back of the net with a beautiful backheel in the eighth minute. 

Midfielder Bathusi Aubaas doubled the lead for the Premier Soccer League giants in the 27th minute as Downs went to the half-time break leading.

Just after two minutes into the second-half, Sundowns were reduced to ten as Matthews was sent off after receiving a second yellow card. 

After the red card, Home Defenders threw everything at Masandawana, creating plenty of chances, but they couldn't capitalize until the final whistle.

Bathusi Aubaas should be credited for his effectiveness during the match. 

The Bafana Bafana international was strong in the middle of the park and also scored a goal to help Sundowns go through the next phase of the tournament. 

Mpheni Home Defenders came to this game with high confidence, believing they would cause an upset for Sundowns. 

However, failing to do so after creating several chances and seemingly outplaying Downs in the second half, Mpheni will be disappointed as they head back to Limpopo. 

Sundowns will face Marumo Gallants in a PSL clash at the Dr. Rantlai Petrus Stadium on Wednesday evening, while Home Defenders will also return to their ABC Motsepe action.

The Chloorkop-based giants will discover their Nedbank Cup quarter-final opponents during the draw ceremony on Monday, February 17.