In a major upset, Stellenbosch FC defeated defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns 1-0 in the first leg of the MTN8 semi-final at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Wednesday.
Coach Steve Barker’s tactical brilliance and goalkeeper Sage Stevens’s heroics were key to Stellies’ victory. Their counter-attacking style, spearheaded by Devin Titus, proved a thorn in Sundowns’ side.
A second-half penalty converted by Fawaaz Basadien gave Stellies the lead. Sundowns struggled to impose their usual dominance, lacking the attacking flair that characterized their play under previous coach Rulani Mokwena.
Man-of-the-match Sage Stevens made several crucial saves to deny Sundowns a late equalizer. Teboho Mokoena hit the woodwork, while Arthur Sales and Themba Zwane were also denied by the Stellies ‘keeper.
The defeat could have significant implications for Sundowns, who have shown signs of inconsistency this season. Their performance has raised questions about the team’s future direction, especially after their narrow quarter-final win over Polokwane City.
Despite creating chances, Sundowns were unable to convert them. They will need a much-improved performance in the second leg at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday to overturn the deficit.