Nedbank Cup: Strong start sends Sundowns through to final eight

Matías Esquivel in action for Mamelodi Sundowns against Mpheni Home Defenders. Photo Credit: Mamelodi Sundowns

Mamelodi Sundowns are through to the quarterfinals of South Africa's Nedbank Cup following a 2-0 victory over third tier side Mpheni Home Defenders on Sunday.

Goals inside the opening half hour from Tashreeq Matthews and Bathusi Aubaas were enough for the reigning South African champions, who played most of the second half with ten men after Matthews received his second yellow card.

But before his dismissal, Matthews delivered an inspired bit of creativity for the opening goal in the 8th minute with a backheel finish after receiving a cross from Brazilian striker Arthur Sales. Aubaas scored his first goal for Sundowns in the 27th minute after a short corner kick resulted in a cross from Matías Esquivel that was cushioned down by Mosa Lebusa for Aubaas to lash in a low finish.

Matthews received yellow cards on both sides of halftime, the second for a reckless challenge that will certainly draw the ire of coach Miguel Cardoso. Mpheni showed potential and were able to create danger with their numerical advantage but lacked quality in the final third as Sundowns held on.

Sundowns join fellow top flight Betway Premiership sides Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs, Marumo Gallants, Stellenbosch FC, SuperSport United and also second tier leaders Durban City in the quarterfinals.

There is still one spot to be determined with the status of the Round of 32 match between Royal AM and Milford still postponed and awaiting a decision from the Premier Soccer League (PSL). Whoever advances from that tie faces Sekhukhune United for the final spot in the quarterfinals.

Round of 16 Results

SuperSport United 2-1 Cape Town Spurs (AET)

Stellenbosch FC 2-0 Polokwane City

Durban City 2-1 TS Galaxy (AET)

Marumo Gallants 1-0 AmaZulu

Orlando Pirates 3-1 Baroka

Kaizer Chiefs 3-0 Chippa United

Mamelodi Sundowns 2-0 Mpheni