Timmy T Maranda
Mamelodi Sundowns sent out a strong warning to the rest of Group B after a 5-1 win over Algerian side CR Belouzidad in their Total CAF Champions League match.
The victory for Sundowns – at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania – consolidated their position on top of the Group B with six points from two matches, with seven goals scored and one goal conceded.
Algerian side CR Belouzidad was dealt a huge blow in the third minute with Keddad receiving his marching orders for handling the ball in a goal-line, resulting in a penalty.
Themba Zwane stepped up and broke the dead-lock for the Brazilians from the penalty spot, Mshishi sent the keeper the wrong way for an opener.
On the stroke of half-time, Amir Sayoud pulled one back going to the break. After a solo run down the left wing, Sayoud chipped Dennis Onyango to make it 1-1.
In the second half Peter Shalulile restored the lead for Mamelodi Sundowns, with a free header inside the box to make it 2-1 in the 48th minute.
Themba Zwane opened the floodgate when he completed his brace for the Brazillians in the 55th minute. A few minutes later Lebogang Maboe slotted the fourth goal.
Kermit Erusmas put the final nail in CR Belouzidad’s coffin after a superb cut back by Themba Zwane to make it 5-1.
Downs co-coach Manqoba Mngqithi said CR Belouzidad committed a big error by getting a red card early in the match and Downs was able to capitalise on that.
“I believe that had the defender allowed the goal to go in, they would still remain with a good number and be able to have a fighting chance in a game,” said Mngqithi.
“But unfortunately, because we were numerically superior, I felt we took that to our heads. But after half-time chats we came with purpose and we stretched them,” Mngqithi added.
In the next match Mamelodi Sundowns will face TP mazembe in Lumbumbashi.
Picture source: @MasandawanaÂ
