The Stellies stunned the unimpressive Brazilians in the semi-final clash at Loftus Versfeld
Mamelodi Sundowns’ unconvincing start to the season continued when they lost 1-0 to Stellenbosch FC in the first leg of the MTN8 semi-final at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday.
Sundowns looked out of sorts in the first half with the presence of home fans not doing much to provide them with motivation.
The Stellies announced their intentions early when Devin Titus attempted an audacious bicycle kick in the 10th minute but his effort went straight at Jody February in Sundowns’ goal.
Andre de Jong then picked out Bradley Mojela whose effort was deflected out for a corner before Sundowns’ first opportunity arrived in the 36th minute when Sage Stephens pulled off a great save from a Peter Shalulile effort.
Sage Stephens stood tall for Stellenbosch
The first half ended goalless but Stellenbosch changed things in the second stanza.
Titus, a menace throughout, was brought down in the box, leading to a penalty which was coolly converted by Kaizer Chiefs target Fawaaz Basadien in the 61st minute.
The goal woke up Sundowns who upped their game in the second but Stellenbosch goalkeeper Stephens came to his team’s rescue on a number of occasions.
Brazilian forward Arthur de Oliveira Sales should have scored the equaliser from a freekick but failed to direct the ball into the net.
Will Sundowns get revenge in the second leg?
The new signing then had a glorious opportunity for 1-1 when he found himself through on goal but Stephens stood tall to preserve Stellenbosch’s lead.
Substitute Themba Zwane would force Stephens into two quick saves before Teboho Mokwena thought he had scored a late goal from thunderous trike but it hit the crossbar.
Defeat extends Sundowns’ poor run in the semi-final and their job has been made more difficult as they will have to win the second leg away at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Sunday.
