Despite dominating the game, Mamelodi Sundowns lost 1-0 to TP Mazembe in their CAF Champions League Group A match at the Stade TP Mazembe in Lubumbashi on Saturday afternoon.
Rulani Mokwena’s team took control of the early possession, looking for ways to unlock the DRC club’s defence.
While Sundowns dominated, few clear-cut opportunities were created, while Mazembe fell back on attempting long-distance efforts, with Cheick Fofana coming closest on the half-hour with a powerful shot that went just wide.
Sundowns captain Themba Zwane could not believe he missed giving his team the lead in the 39th minute, as he found himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper, only to see the ball brush the upright and go wide. Three minutes later Thapelo Morena fired just over.
Just before the break Sundowns were awarded a free kick just outside the box after Peter Shalulile was fouled. Teboho Mokoena fired just over and at halftime it remained goalless.
Khuliso Mudau had the ball in the back on the net two minutes into the second half, but it was ruled out for an offside.
Again the woodwork came to Mazembe’s rescue in the 52nd minute, as Lucas Ribeiro’s effort struck the crossbar.
Against the run of play, Mazembe grabbed the lead on the hour mark, Glody Likonza heading past Ronwen Williams to make it 1-0.
Sundowns continued to push, and Ribeiro was denied by Aliou Faty in the 75th minute from close range.
But the goal just wouldn’t come for Masandawana, and Mazembe held on for a famous win, just their second over their South African opponents.