Sundowns edge Raja to secure crucial win, Sagrada hold firm to ...

Published: Sunday, 15 December 2024

South African side Mamelodi Sundowns claimed their first victory in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League group stage with a 1-0 triumph over Raja Casablanca at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Sunday.

Iqraam Rayners scored the decisive goal in the 65th minute, drilling a right-footed strike into the bottom corner after a well-placed assist from Kutlwano Letlhaku.

The win moves Sundowns to the top of Group B on five points alongside FAR Rabat, who drew 1-1 with Maniema Union on Saturday.

The first half was cagey, with both sides struggling to convert chances.

Raja’s Adam Ennaffati and Younes Najjari threatened early but lacked precision. Sundowns grew into the game after halftime, with Lucas Ribeiro Costa forcing crucial saves.

Raja, now bottom of Group B with just one point, failed to capitalize on late pressure as Sundowns’ defence, led by Ronwen Williams, held firm.

The South African giants head into the second half of the group stage with renewed confidence as they push for knockout qualification.

Meanwhile, Djoliba and Sagrada Esperança played out a tense goalless draw in their TotalEnergies CAF Champions League Group D clash at Stade 26 Mars on Sunday.

Despite creating the better chances, Djoliba failed to convert, with Kenan Glougbe hitting the woodwork twice in the second half.

His thunderous efforts from distance came closest to breaking the deadlock, but luck was not on his side.

Sagrada, meanwhile, focused on defensive solidity and relied on goalkeeper Filipe Pimpão, who made crucial saves, including efforts from Aboubacar Diakite and Ousmane Diallo.

The result leaves both teams winless at the halfway stage of the group phase, each with two points.

Esperance Tunis lead the group with seven points after their 2-0 win over Pyramids on Saturday.

Djoliba will now look for a stronger finish as the group stage continues, while Sagrada aim to build on their defensive resilience.