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Sundowns, Chiefs hit the ground running with convincing victories in the MTN 8

Sundowns on the field
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Goals in each half handed Mamelodi Sundowns a convincing win in the first quarterfinal match of the MTN8.

Sundowns, who were out to do better than they did in their last MTN8 campaign, cruised to 2-0 victory over Golden Arrows at the Lucas Moripe Stadium.

Earlier in the day, Kaizer Chiefs looked a more energized side than they did last season, when they thrashed Free State Stars 3-0 to advance to the semifinals of the tournament.

Dumisani Zuma opened the scoring in the 19th minute before former Sundowns stars, Leonardo Castro and Khama Billiat sealed it for Amakhosi.

Although the Brazilians were pre-tournament favourites, the Kwa-Zulu Natal side last featured in the competition nine years ago when they went all the way to lift the trophy.

They would have been eager to stay a little longer in the tournament.

Arrows packed the midfield in an attempt to stop Sundowns from dominating play.

However, when their opponents had the ball, they ensured that their passing was accurate.

Despite their efforts, they just couldn’t find the target.

However, in the 40th minute, Sibusio Vilakazi was able to complete a move he initially started with a stunner on the edge of the box.

The hosts took the 1-0 lead into the break – not a comfortable score line, but one that they could draw inspiration from in the second half.

Arrows’ performance after the interval was far from convincing, allowing the Brazilians to control the game.

Abafana’besthende didn’t look a side that would deny Sundowns a last four spot.

The home side had a number of opportunities to double the lead before their 70th minute goal.

After the substitution of goalscorer Vilakazi, Sundowns wasted no time to increase the lead. Quick reaction following a poor free kick take resulted in a goal as defender Wayne Arendse sealed victory with a diving header to make it 2-0.

 

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