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Sundowns kick off their CAFCL campaign on a high
Mamelodi Sundowns asserted their dominance in the CAF Champions League as they defeated Eswatini side Mbabane Swallows 3-0 in the second preliminary round on Saturday evening at the Lucas Moripe Stadium.
Defender Asekho Tiwani stamped his authority on the match very early when he earned his side a penalty after he was tackled inside the box.
It was Lucas Ribeiro Costa who took the spot-kick in the second minute sending the Swallows’ keeper in the wrong direction with his left foot to open the scoring.
It didn’t take long before Masandawana made it two in the 17th minute through Mosa Lebusa’s free header from Ribeiro’s corner kick, and the Downs defender headed into the net.
A few minutes later, Arthur Sales was forced off after picking up an injury, and Thapelo Maseko was introduced for his first match of the season.
The Brazilians, in the mood in the first half, netted another goal before heading to the breakthrough Iqraam Rayners for his first goal in Brazilian colours.
He was as sharp as a razor in the box as he seized the opportunity to take an unreal shot to make it three goals to take his team into the break in a commanding lead.
The teamwork continued in the second half leading to the fourth goal just before the hour mark when Rayners turned provider making a beautiful assist for Ribeiro to slot in and complete his brace.
Shortly after, coach Manqoba Mngqithi introduced Malibongwe Khoza and Peter Shalulile but it was a Namibian forward that created the next opportunity which he failed to convert.
Even with the many more clear-cut chances created, the match still ended with only four goals for the away side.
Masandawana will head to the second leg to host Swallows next weekend with a healthy advantage.
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