By Michael Madyira
Mamelodi Sundowns put one foot into the African Football League last-four following a 2-0 quarter-final, first-leg victory over Petro Atletico at Estadio 11 de Novembro.
Marcelo Allende opened the scoring for Sundowns on 67 minutes after a goalless first half.
Substitute Thapelo Maseko put the match beyond the hosts’ reach with 10 minutes remaining.
It was a relief for Sundowns who had lost the MTN final to Orlando Pirates two weeks ago and exited the Carling Knockout last Wednesday after losing to TS Galaxy.
They now gathered themselves after their last visit to Luanda ended with elimination from the CAF Champions League at the hands of the same team two seasons ago.
The Brazilians have now cushioned themselves with two away goals ahead of Tuesday’s African Football League second leg.
Going into that match without pressure, Sundowns almost went ahead after nine minutes when Gilberto timely intervened to deny a charging Grant Kekana.
Aubrey Modiba then forced Petro Atletico defender Pedro Pinto to clear from the goalline a Junior Mendieta effort.
Pinto was back again but found Ronwen Williams unyielding between the sticks.
Sphelele Mklhulise and captain Themba Zwane then came close for the Brazilians before the halftime break.
Just after the restart, Mothobi Mvala was forced to clear the lines after Anderson Cruz had come clear to shoot at goal.
Allende then connected a feed from fellow South American Mendieta to put Masandawana ahead.
Just after a minute, he was introduced, and Maseko shot from a tight angle to double Madandawana’s lead.
The Brazilians limited their hosts to let themselves go into the second leg with a two-goal lead.
Pictured above: Mamelodi Sundowns players celebrating
Image source: Mamelodi Sundowns
