Mamelodi Sundowns flexed their championship muscle while Stellenbosch held their nerve in extra time as both sides booked their spots in the MTN8 semi-finals after contrasting quarter-final victories.
Sundowns Turn on the Style
At Loftus Versfeld, Mamelodi Sundowns delivered a clinical, commanding performance to dismantle Richards Bay 4-0 and underline their intent to lift yet another domestic trophy. Iqraam Rayners was the star of the show, netting a brace as the Brazilians raced to a comfortable win.
Rayners opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a well-placed header from a Marcelo Allende corner. A self-inflicted wound from Richards Bay captain Simphiwe Mcineka—who turned a low cross into his own net just before the break—gave Sundowns a two-goal cushion at halftime.
The second half saw no let-up. Rayners added his second with a sharp finish off the post, before teenager Siyabonga Mabena capped the rout with a deflected strike in the 76th minute.
Despite some spirited moments from the visitors—most notably a disallowed goal and a few promising runs—Sundowns were in complete control throughout. Their reward? A blockbuster semi-final clash away to defending champions Orlando Pirates.
Stellies Edge Usuthu in Cup Classic
In stark contrast to the Brazilians’ dominance, Stellenbosch had to dig deep to overcome AmaZulu 3-2 in a pulsating extra-time battle at the Danie Craven Stadium.
The visitors struck first through debutant Keegan Allan, who converted from close range in the 18th minute. But Stellenbosch hit back quickly as Sanele Barns unleashed a thunderbolt to level matters just six minutes later.
Barns doubled his tally with a cheeky near-post free-kick in the second half, only for AmaZulu to equalise again—this time through substitute Tebogo Mashigo, whose looping shot beat Sage Stephens and forced extra time.
The game looked destined for penalties until Langelihle Phili produced a moment of magic, cutting inside and rifling a low drive past the keeper to seal it for the Maroons.
Stellenbosch’s reward is a semi-final against Sekhukhune United, who also advanced over the weekend.
Semi-Final Fixtures Locked In
- Orlando Pirates vs Mamelodi Sundowns
- Stellenbosch vs Sekhukhune United
With the semi-final line-up now confirmed, fans can expect fireworks as South Africa’s top clubs edge closer to MTN8 glory.