Mamelodi Sundowns produced a dramatic late comeback to secure a 3-2 victory over TS Galaxy at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday night, getting their Betway Premiership title defence off to a winning start.
The Brazilians looked destined to suffer their first opening-day league defeat since 2007 after falling 2-1 behind with just minutes remaining. However, substitute Sphelele Mkhulise struck twice in the closing stages to complete a remarkable turnaround for the visitors.
Sundowns made the perfect start when they were awarded a penalty in the sixth minute after Tashreeq Matthews was brought down by Junior Zindoga inside the box. Brayan Leon stepped up and confidently converted from the spot to give the visitors an early 1-0 advantage.
Galaxy gradually grew into the contest and were rewarded for their efforts in the 33rd minute. A defensive mistake allowed Tshepo Kakora to release Victor Letsoalo into space inside the penalty area, with the striker driving forward before firing a low shot through Ronwen Williams to make it 1-1.
The teams went into halftime level.
Sundowns made an early change after the restart, with Bennet Mokoena replacing Nuno Santos in midfield. The substitute immediately made an impact, helping create an opportunity for Matthews, who set up Antonio Van Wyk. However, Ira Tape produced an excellent save to deny the Sundowns winger.
Tape was called into action again in the 69th minute, turning away a powerful volley from Leon as Sundowns increased the pressure.
Despite dominating much of the second half, Sundowns were stunned in the 77th minute when Galaxy took the lead.
Mpho Mvelase delivered a dangerous free-kick towards an unmarked Letsoalo, whose header was initially tipped onto the post by Williams. The ball then rebounded off the Sundowns goalkeeper before ending up in the back of the net to put the Rockets 2-1 ahead.
Sundowns pushed desperately for an equaliser. Marcelo Allende’s corner was flicked on in the 84th minute, but Matthews could only stab his effort wide.
Cassius Mailula then came close two minutes later, but Tape once again stood firm to keep Galaxy in front.
The pressure finally paid off in the 89th minute.
After good work from Khuliso Mudau down the right flank, Mkhulise found space in a crowded penalty area and saw his effort take a deflection before beating Tape to make it 2-2.
And the comeback was completed deep into stoppage time.
Mkhulise struck again in the 90+4th minute to send Sundowns into a frenzy and complete an extraordinary 3-2 victory.
The result gives Sundowns three points from their opening league match, while Galaxy will rue surrendering their advantage so late in the contest.
Sundowns now face a blockbuster clash against Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday, 15 August, while TS Galaxy host Golden Arrows on Sunday, 16 August.
TS Galaxy 2-3 Mamelodi Sundowns
Letsoalo 33’, Williams OG 77’ — Leon 7’ pen, Mkhulise 89’, 90+4’
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