Mamelodi Sundowns reached the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-finals after securing a 1-0 victory over Marumo Gallants at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
The result allowed the African champions to make amends, although they had to work hard for their place in the next round in Tshwane.
Sundowns made full use of home advantage and controlled much of the opening half. Their pressure was rewarded in the 20th minute when Siyanda Ndlovu fired home the only goal of the match.
The strike proved decisive in a closely contested game, with both teams creating further opportunities without finding a way to convert them.
Gallants continued to compete despite falling behind, while Sundowns sought to increase their control of the tie. The visitors were not prepared to give up and remained a threat as the match progressed.
Sundowns made three changes in the second half, introducing Marcelo Allende, Aubrey Modiba and Nuno Santos. The substitutions appeared designed to help pin Marumo Gallants back and give the home side greater control.
Both teams continued to create goalscoring chances after the interval, but neither could add to the score. Sundowns held on to claim victory and secure their progression to the quarter-finals.
Mamelodi Sundowns started with Goss, Morena, Basadien, Khoza, Mvala, Cele, Mkhulise, Ndlovu, Van Wyk, Sales and Rayners.
Marumo Gallants’ starting XI was Mlambo, Manku, Ntiya-Ntiya, Rikhotso, Motsoeneng, Pheeha, Ndlondlo, Seketso, Ncube, Ndlovu and Sihlali.
