Sundowns navigate Gomora test to reach Nedbank Cup Last 16

Mamelodi Sundowns secured their passage into the Nedbank Cup Round of 16 with a professional 2-1 victory over second-tier league side Gomora United at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on Wednesday night.

While the scoreline suggests a close encounter, the Brazilians controlled the vast majority of the proceedings, using the fixture to manage squad rotation and give minutes to the likes of Kutlwano Letlhaku and Arthur Sales.

Sundowns established their rhythm early, pinning the visitors back with high possession. The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 41st minute when Peter Shalulile showed his trademark composure to finish a well-weighted pass from the young Letlhaku.

Gomora United managed a rare moment of clinical finishing just before the break, with Mpho Maoke finding the bottom corner in the 45th minute to briefly level the scores. Despite the equaliser, Masandawana remained composed, heading into the tunnel with a clear tactical advantage.

MORENA RESTORES THE ORDER FOR SUNDOWNS

Coach Miguel Cardoso made proactive changes at the start of the second half, introducing Thapelo Morena and Arthur Sales to maintain the team’s intensity.

The strategy paid off in the 61st minute when Morena capitalised on a pinpoint cross from Jayden Adams, heading home to restore the lead. From that point on, Sundowns managed the game effectively, keeping Gomora at arm’s length.

The final half-hour was a case of game management for the hosts. Sundowns continued to create chances, with Shalulile and Tashreeq Matthews testing the Gomora defence, though the finishing lacked the clinical edge to add a third.

Cardoso will be pleased to have navigated the tie without significant incident, though the late substitution of Jayden Adams for Fawaaz Basadien in the 87th minute will be monitored ahead of their upcoming league commitments.

Ultimately, it was a professional display from the defending league champions, who move one step closer to another domestic trophy without needing to hit top gear.