Mokoena Brace Propels Sundowns to the Top

Mamelodi Sundowns reclaimed the top spot in the Betway Premiership following a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Marumo Gallants at Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria, on Tuesday night, 17 March 2026. The win moves the Brazilians to 50 points, leapfrogging Orlando Pirates to sit two points clear at the summit with nine games remaining.

The hosts took the lead in the 31st minute when Keanu Cupido rose highest to meet a Marcelo Allende cross, though the goal was ultimately recorded as an own goal by Gallants’ Siphosakhe Ntiya-Ntiya. 

Gallants, battling relegation, found a lifeline five minutes before the break when Nuno Santos was penalized for a handball. Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo stepped up to convert the penalty, sending Ronwen Williams the wrong way to level the score.

The second half belonged to substitute Teboho Mokoena, who replaced Miguel Reisinho at the interval. Mokoena restored the lead in the 62nd minute after being teed up by Arthur Sales and then scored again, sealing the result in stoppage time with a trademark long-range strike.

Reflecting on the title race, Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has previously emphasised the importance of resilience, stating, “Bafana Ba Style rise to the occasion and get it done.” Meanwhile, a supporter’s sentiment echoed the mood in Pretoria: “The introduction of Mokoena was a masterstroke. Now we are in control.”

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