Mamelodi Sundowns booked their spot in the last eight of the Nedbank Cup after a comfortable 2-0 win over Mpheni Home Defenders despite playing the majority of the second half with 10 men.
The home side took the lead as early as the eighth minute through Tashreeq Matthews with a cheeky back-heel to put Sundowns 1-0 up.
Miguel Cardoso’s outfit then doubled their lead in the 27th minute through Bathusi Aubaas to make it 2-0 and give the hosts the advantage going into the break.
Matthews then turned from hero to villain after being shown a red card in the 47th minute for a second bookable offence.
Defenders were unlucky to not at least grab a goal after hitting the crossbar twice, but Sundowns thwarted all the threat thrown at them to seal their passage to the next round.
The Brazilians now join Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, Stellenbosch FC, Marumo Gallants, Durban City and SuperSport United ahead of Monday’s draw.
