Stellenbosch shock Sundowns in Pretoria in MTN8 semi-final first leg

Fawaaz Basadien's 62nd-minute penalty proved decisive in Pretoria as Steve Barker's side edged closer to their second consecutive final appearance, following their triumph in the Carling Knockout last season.

Stellies entered the match brimming with confidence after an emphatic 8-0 aggregate victory over Nsingizini Hotspurs in the CAF Confederation Cup preliminary first round. They threatened early when Devin Titus attempted an overhead kick just 10 minutes in, only for Jody February to comfortably gather the effort.

Eight minutes later, the hosts responded through Terrence Mashego, but his ambitious long-range strike flew harmlessly over the crossbar. Sage Stephens was called into action for the first time in the 37th minute, making an excellent save to deny Peter Shalulile after he was set up by Lucas Ribeiro. Moments later, Grant Kekana's header grazed the top of the woodwork, keeping the score level.

The first half ended without a breakthrough, but Stellenbosch were handed a prime opportunity to take the lead early in the second half when Titus was brought down inside the penalty area. Basadien stepped up and calmly converted from the spot, securing a vital away goal for the Maroons.

Mamelodi Sundowns pushed hard for an equalizer in the final stages. The visitors' defense was put under immense pressure, particularly after a frantic goalmouth scramble in the 75th minute. Stephens then produced a heroic save at point-blank range to deny Arthur Sales in the 79th minute.

As the clock wound down, Stephens continued to stand tall, blocking Kutlwano Letlhaku's effort in the 89th minute after the substitute was expertly found by Sales. In stoppage time, Teboho Mokoena nearly snatched a dramatic equalizer with a powerful strike from distance that cannoned off the post, but Stellenbosch held on to secure the win.

READ MORE: Cape Town City FC force draw with Orlando Pirates in MTN8 semi-final first leg