Cape Town City secure victory over Royal AM in league clash

The Citizens entered the match with an unchanged lineup from their previous triumph over Chippa United, displaying a cohesive and formidable team. On the other side, Royal AM, spearheaded by Sedwyn George and Menzi Masuku in the attack, faced an early setback when coach John Maduka had to substitute Shadrack Kobedi for Sbusiso Magaqa due to a collision with Marc Van Heerden just eight minutes into the game.

Despite the change, Royal AM persisted in their offensive efforts. Sedwyn George had a golden opportunity with a well-delivered ball towards the target, but Cape Town City goalkeeper Darren Keet thwarted his attempt. Meanwhile, Menzi Masuku tried to capitalize on defensive miscommunication, but his shot from a tight angle veered wide.

CT City intensified the pressure, breaking the deadlock around the half-hour mark. Keanu Cupido skilfully manoeuvred through the defence, delivering a precise ball to Jaedin Rhodes, who expertly turned it home at the near post, giving the Citizens a well-deserved 1-0 lead.

Entering the second half, CT City made their first substitution, bringing on Thabo Nodada for Taahir Goedeman. Royal AM, desperate to level the score, created a threat in the wide channels as Thabo Matlaba forced Keet into a crucial point-blank save.

Despite Royal's efforts, striker Thabiso Kutumela came close to doubling City's lead, but his close-range shot sailed over the bar. The decisive moment arrived for the Citizens in the closing minutes when Thabo Nodada capitalized on a free-kick from Darwin Gonzalez, nodding the ball home at the near post to secure a 2-0 victory.

Cape Town City FC's fifth consecutive win highlights their current prowess in the DStv Premiership and are third on the log. In contrast, Royal AM finds themselves languishing in 14th position, facing the challenge of climbing the league table.

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