Sundowns Edge Past Polokwane City To Reclaim Top Spot In Title Race

It was not flashy. It was not ruthless. But for Mamelodi Sundowns, it was exactly what the title race demanded.

On a cool night in Seshego, Masandawana ground out a narrow 1-0 win over Polokwane City, doing just enough to climb back to the summit of the Betway Premiership. In a season where every point carries weight, this was a result built more on persistence than perfection.

Sundowns Back On Top

After a slight wobble in recent weeks, Sundowns arrived in Limpopo needing a response. Back-to-back draws had opened the door for Orlando Pirates, but Miguel Cardoso’s side shut it firmly again with this victory.

Marcelo Allende proved to be the difference-maker, striking early in the second half to hand the visitors all three points. That single goal was enough to move Sundowns two points clear at the top and extend their impressive unbeaten run to 17 matches.

For a team chasing yet another league crown, momentum matters. And this felt like a shift back in their favour.

First Half Pressure Without Reward

Sundowns dominated the opening exchanges, controlling possession and carving out chances, but lacked the clinical edge that has defined them for much of the campaign.

Jayden Adams went close early on, while Teboho Mokoena and Iqraam Rayners both missed opportunities to test Polokwane City goalkeeper Lindokuhle Mathebula. Even Peter Shalulile, usually so reliable in front of goal, could not convert when it mattered before the break.

Despite eight attempts in the first half, the scoreboard remained unchanged, leaving the hosts with hope.

Breakthrough Sparks Relief

The second half told a different story.

A clever change from the bench injected fresh energy into Sundowns’ attack, and it paid off almost immediately. Lebo Mothiba, introduced just moments earlier, made an instant impact by setting up Allende, who finished confidently from close range in the 62nd minute.

It was the kind of decisive moment that often separates champions from contenders.

Missed Chance But Job Done

Sundowns had a golden opportunity to put the game beyond doubt midway through the second half. A penalty was awarded after Khulumani Ndamane was brought down in the box.

Mothiba stepped up but opted for a Panenka attempt that lacked conviction, allowing Mathebula to make a comfortable save. It was a rare lapse in judgement, but fortunately for the visitors, it did not come back to haunt them.

From there, Sundowns managed the game well, closing out the final stages without major scares.

Title Race Heating Up

While Polokwane City showed resilience and remain in the hunt for a top-eight finish, the bigger story lies at the top of the table.

Sundowns’ ability to grind out results, even when not at their best, highlights why they remain favourites for the title. With Orlando Pirates breathing down their necks, every match now feels like a final.

For Sundowns, this was more than just three points. It was a reminder that champions find a way, even on nights when the margins are tight.