Sundowns secure first-leg victory in African Football League

With their sights set on the semifinals, the South African powerhouse showcased their mettle on foreign soil.

The opening moments of the encounter witnessed the Angolan champions, Petro de Luanda, applying early pressure with a series of half-chances. However, they struggled to convert their opportunities, setting the tone for a thrilling clash.

A pivotal moment occurred in the 25th minute when Alexander Guedes found himself with a golden opportunity to propel Petro ahead. But it was Ronwen Williams, the Sundowns' guardian, who emerged as the hero of the hour. Williams pulled off a great save, denying Guedes the chance to draw first blood.

With just seven minutes remaining before half-time, Petro was handed a lifeline when Sundowns' Mothobi Mvala fouled Jonathan Toro in the box, leading to a penalty. Gilberto stepped up to the plate, aiming to restore parity. However, the indomitable Ronwen Williams had other plans. He thwarted Gilberto's effort, and when Guedes attempted to capitalize on the rebound, Williams once again displayed his shot-stopping prowess.

Petro continued to press forward, desperately seeking a breakthrough before the half-time whistle. Yet, the Sundowns' defence held firm, leaving the first 45 minutes deadlocked in at 0-0.

The second half commenced with both sides embroiled in a tactical battle, each vying for the elusive opening goal. In the 53rd minute, Sundowns' Mokoena unleashed a ferocious long-range strike from beyond the 18-yard mark. Petro's goalkeeper, Hugo Marques, showed cat-like reflexes, tipping the powerful shot over the crossbar and earning his side a vital corner-kick.

After exerting considerable dominance following the halftime interval, Sundowns were finally rewarded for their persistence in the 67th minute. Marcelo Allande broke the deadlock with a clinical finish, latching onto a perfectly timed pass from Junior Mendieta to make it 1-0.

In the 80th minute, Rulani Mokwena made a calculated double substitution, introducing Gaston Sirino and Thapelo Maseko for Themba Zwane and Junior Mendieta. It proved to be a master-stroke, as the newly-introduced duo combined to seal the victory in the 81st minute. Sirino orchestrated the move, delivering an exquisite pass to Maseko, who expertly rounded Petro's goalkeeper before slotting the ball into the net to make it 2-0.

With this commanding two-goal lead, Mamelodi Sundowns have positioned themselves favourably as they approach the second leg, which will be contested on their home turf in South Africa.

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