Mamelodi Sundowns Beat AmaZulu Amid Transfer Window Uncertainty
Mamelodi Sundowns started to find their stride in the 2025–26 Betway Premiership season, edging past AmaZulu 2-0 at Loftus Versfeld on Tuesday night. Goals from Iqraam Rayners and Tashreeq Matthews delivered a welcome three points, but the game also highlighted the squad’s ongoing transfer-related challenges.
Mamelodi Sundowns Struggle for Cohesion
AmaZulu began the match strongly, creating the clearest opportunities in the first half. Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya missed a prime chance in the 30th minute, failing to convert a precise delivery from Riaan Hanamub. Sundowns, meanwhile, relied heavily on individual moments rather than fluid team play. Youngster Kutlwano Letlhaku showed flashes of promise but was hindered by poor finishing and decision-making.
Defensive errors also rattled the hosts, with Grant Kekana almost diverting the ball into his own net before the interval. The absence of creative linchpins Lucas Ribeiro and Khuliso Mudau left Sundowns searching for ideas, a situation linked directly to ongoing transfer speculation.
Tactical Changes Spark Victory
At half-time, coach Miguel Cardoso responded decisively, introducing Tashreeq Matthews and Aubrey Modiba. Matthews made an immediate impact, heading Arthur Sales’ lob into the path of Rayners, who smashed home a half-volley eight minutes after the restart. Sundowns gained control, but AmaZulu continued to threaten, with Ngwenya wasting another chance late in the second half.
Peter Shalulile’s return provided additional stability, and Matthews sealed the win in stoppage time, slotting past the AmaZulu goalkeeper at the near post. The 2-0 victory was a boost following a disappointing 1-1 draw with Chippa United last weekend.
Transfer Market Tensions Affect the Squad
Off the pitch, Sundowns’ squad faces uncertainty. Lucas Ribeiro Costa has missed the opening games while reportedly finalising a move to Qatar SC. Khuliso Mudau is also sidelined amid contract negotiations, and Peter Shalulile has attracted interest from clubs in Tunisia and Sudan. Meanwhile, Kutlwano Letlhaku has submitted a transfer request.
Coach Cardoso admitted the transfer speculation has an impact on the team. “Players are friends, they communicate in the locker room, and it’s impossible for these things not to affect them. But it’s crucial to maintain a strong mentality and focus on winning every match,” he said.
Despite these distractions, Sundowns have shown resilience. They won their MTN8 opener against Richards Bay, drew with Chippa United, and now claimed their first league win, proving the squad can perform even under off-field pressure.
Staying Focused Amid Uncertainty
Cardoso is confident the club’s professionalism will guide the team through the ongoing transfer turbulence. “The market is always challenging, especially after a strong showing at the Club World Cup. But the club has a clear strategy, and the maturity in the dressing room allows players to focus on what’s important,” he said.
With the MTN8 semi-final against Orlando Pirates looming, Sundowns will look to consolidate momentum while managing the complexities of player movement. The team’s ability to navigate transfer challenges while maintaining results could define their campaign, as they aim to defend their Betway Premiership title in a season already shaped by both opportunity and uncertainty.
Related article: MTN8 Title in Sight: Ribeiro Says Sundowns Are Going All Out
