Mamelodi Sundowns resumed their Betway Premiership campaign with an accomplished 2–0 victory over Orbit College on Monday night, keeping the pressure firmly on log-leaders Orlando Pirates as the title race reignited at Loftus Versfeld.
With the month-long AFrica Cup of Nations break behind them, the defending champions wasted little time asserting control. The win moves the Brazilians to 27 points from 14 matches, momentarily closing the gap on the Buccaneers, who sit on 28 points with two games in hand.
Sundowns dominated possession from the opening exchanges, pinning Orbit deep in their half and circulating the ball with authority. Their pressure told in the 24th minute, aided by a costly mistake from Orbit goalkeeper Cyril Chibwe.
Arthur Sales harried the keeper into a loose touch and reacted quickest, producing an acrobatic finish to give Masandawana a deserved lead.
It was largely one-way traffic thereafter. Sundowns continued to probe with patience and precision, though they lacked the final touch to put the contest beyond doubt before the break. Orbit, making their return to top-flight action, struggled to string passes together and spent long spells chasing shadows.
The visitors were briefly spared when the floodlights at Loftus went out, halting play momentarily, but the interruption did little to disrupt the hosts’ rhythm.
The second half brought the moment many inside the stadium were waiting for: new Colombian signing Brayan León announcing himself in South African football.
Introduced from the bench for his debut, the striker made an immediate impact, rising above his marker to power home a cross from 19-year-old debutant Thato Sibiya in the 65th minute to double the advantage.
The goal effectively ended the contest.
Sundowns remained in control, dictating the tempo while Orbit offered little resistance. With the points secured, the Brazilians saw out the closing stages with composure, sending a clear message that their pursuit of Pirates is far from over.
The Chloorkop-based side now turn their attention to CAF Champions League action as they welcome Al Hilal to Pretoria on Friday.
SCOREBOARD
Mamelodi Sundowns (1) 2
Sales 21, Leon 65
Orbit College 0
