Mamelodi Sundowns, the defending PSL champions, left DR Congo with a hard-earned three points after a dramatic and controversial 2-1 victory over Maniema Union on Saturday, 11 January 2025. The result, which kept Sundowns’ hopes of advancing in the CAF Champions League alive, was far from straightforward. While the win was vital for the team’s aspirations, it was also marred by questionable moments and a wave of criticism from fans who felt the performance didn’t meet the lofty expectations that come with being South Africa’s top club.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions for Sundowns, with both sides showing signs of frustration as the game unfolded. Namibian striker Peter Shalulile played a key role in rescuing Sundowns, scoring a late equalizer in the 80th minute. His header, however, was controversial as it appeared to be from an offside position—though the referee allowed it to stand. This was a pivotal moment in the game, as it gave Sundowns the lifeline they desperately needed after a poor first half. The game took yet another unexpected turn in the dying moments, when Maniema Union’s defender Exaucia Moanda inadvertently scored an own goal, handing Sundowns the victory in what can only be described as a chaotic finish.
The win was significant, not just for the three points, but because it allowed Sundowns to bounce back from their disappointing defeat to Raja Casablanca in their previous group-stage match. However, despite the result, the manner in which Sundowns achieved it left many fans on social media frustrated and vocal about their concerns. Some supporters felt the team’s performance was far below the standard expected from the reigning PSL champions, especially given the quality of players they have. For a club that has dominated the South African domestic league for years, expectations are naturally high, and fans were quick to express their displeasure over the team’s struggles in the continental competition.
Sundowns’ first-half performance was particularly underwhelming. They failed to assert themselves in the opening 45 minutes, and their defense was caught off guard when Jephte Kitambala, the Congolese striker, opened the scoring for Maniema Union in the 38th minute. Kitambala’s shot from a tight angle beat Sundowns’ goalkeeper Ronwen Williams at his near post, which was a rare lapse for the CAF Goalkeeper of the Year. Williams, who has been one of the standout performers for Sundowns, would no doubt have been disappointed to concede such a goal. His frustration was compounded by the fact that his teammates also struggled to find their rhythm in attack, failing to create clear-cut chances.
Despite Sundowns’ difficulties, they managed to fight back in the second half, with Shalulile’s equalizer providing a much-needed spark. The goal, which came from a cross into the box, was a glancing header from the Namibian striker. The controversial nature of the goal, with Shalulile seemingly in an offside position, added to the tension of the match. The referee’s decision to allow the goal to stand was met with mixed reactions, with many questioning the accuracy of the offside call. Regardless, it was a vital moment for Sundowns, who had been struggling to break down their opponents.
As the game neared its conclusion, it seemed like the match was heading for a draw, but a moment of misfortune for Maniema Union sealed the win for Sundowns. In the final minutes of the game, a cross from Sundowns’ attacking play found its way into the box, where Moanda, under pressure, inadvertently turned the ball into his own net. The own goal gave Sundowns the 2-1 lead and the victory, ensuring they left Congo with all three points.
While Sundowns would have celebrated the result, the controversial nature of the match and the team’s overall performance left much to be desired. Fans took to social media in droves to express their concerns, with many feeling that Sundowns were not living up to the high standards expected of them. Some pointed to the lackluster display in the first half, while others questioned the decision-making and execution from the players. For a club of Sundowns’ stature, it was clear that a performance like this would not be enough to inspire confidence going forward, especially in the CAF Champions League, where the competition is fierce.
Looking ahead, Sundowns know they must improve significantly if they are to progress to the knockout stages of the CAF Champions League. The result against Maniema Union means that their fate is still in their own hands, but they now face a crucial final group-stage match against log leaders AS FAR Rabat. To secure their place in the knockout rounds, Sundowns will need to produce a much stronger performance, one that matches their pedigree as African giants.
In conclusion, while the 2-1 victory over Maniema Union was important for Sundowns’ continental ambitions, the manner in which they secured the three points will undoubtedly raise further questions about their readiness to compete at the highest level. The performance was far from convincing, and with the knockout stages of the CAF Champions League fast approaching, Sundowns will need to sharpen their game if they are to meet the expectations of their fans and live up to their reputation as one of Africa’s top clubs.
