Onyango's Sundowns seal cup final slot after edging Kaizer Chiefs
Former Uganda Cranes captain Denis Onyango is set to play in another MTN 8 Cup final after his Mamelodi Sundowns side narrowly defeated rivals Kaizer Chiefs 2-1, advancing 3-2 on aggregate.
With the tie level at 1-1 coming into the game, forward Peter Shalulile wasted no time, scoring just one minute into the match at a packed Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium on Saturday.
The Glamour boys managed to equalize in the 33rd minute through Ashley Du Preez, but Shalulile wasn’t finished yet, extending the hosts’ lead just before halftime.
Rulani Mokwena’s side managed to secure the victory and advance 3-2 on aggregate, with Denis Onyango, who was on the bench but didn’t play, adding to his history with the MTN 8 trophy.
🚨𝙎𝙏𝘼𝙍𝙏𝙄𝙉𝙂 𝙓𝙄🚨
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) September 23, 2023
🆚 Kaizer Chiefs
⏰ 15H00
🏟 Lucas Moripe Stadium
📺 SS 202 #Sundowns #MTN8 pic.twitter.com/dFqKUbreQw
In 2021, Sundowns claimed the Cup for the first time since 2007, with the 37-year-old goalkeeper saving five post-match penalties to secure the win for his side.
The Brazilians will now face the winner between current champions Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch; the Sea Robbers won the first leg 2-1.
Mamelodi Sundowns, aiming for their fourth MTN 8 title, are also pursuing an unprecedented seventh consecutive league title.
Denis Onyango’s side is in for a busy season as they are set to participate in the newly formed CAF African Football League.
𝗡𝗘𝗫𝗧 𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗣: 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗠𝗧𝗡𝟴 𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟! 🔜🏆
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) September 23, 2023
Mamelodi Sundowns (1', 45' Shalulile) 2⃣ (3)➖(2) 1⃣ Kaizer Chiefs (33' Du Preez)#Sundowns #DownsLive #MTN8 pic.twitter.com/XJ2B5vIRKe
This tournament features the top eight clubs from various regions across the African continent and will see Sundowns face Angola’s Petro Atletico in one of four quarter-finals, with matches played on a home and away basis.