adminJOHANNESBURG. — Zimbabwean striker Khama Billiat handed Mamelodi Sundowns a 1-0 win over 10-man TP Mazembe in a 2015 CAF Champions League first round, first leg soccer encounter played at Loftus Stadium on Saturday evening.
Billiat popped up with four minutes remaining to net what could prove to be a decisive goal for the South Africans.
Zambian Kabaso Chongo received his marching orders for the visitors in the 42nd minute.
Zimbabwean striker Cuthbert Malajila continued up front for the hosts, while Denis Onyango remained in goal for the defending Absa Premiership champions.
Veteran goalkeeper Robert Kidiaba started between the sticks for the visitors, with Ivorian keeper Sylvain Gbohouo unavailable due to injury.
Daniel Adjei and Solomon Asante were named on the bench for the four time Champions League winners.
The teams exchanged long range efforts in the early exchanges with Roger Assale shooting over the crossbar for the visitors and Tebogo Langerman forcing Robert Kindiaba into a good save.
Sundowns right-back Siyanda Zwane thought they had a claim for a penalty in the 21st minute, but instead the full-back picked up a yellow card for simulation.
The Brazilians continued to dominate proceedings with Billiat in particular causing the Mazembe defence all sorts of problems.
Themba Zwane went close to opening ‘Downs account two minutes after the half-hour mark, his thunderous effort from outside the area flying just wide of Kidiaba’s right-hand post.
Mazembe were dealt a major blow three minutes from the break. Chongo receiving his marching orders for a robust challenge on Anthony Laffor.
Pitso Mosimane introduced playmaker Teko Modise before the break with Bongani Zungu making way for the former Orlando Pirates man, who brought more attacking intent onto the pitch. Sundowns continued were they left off after the interval with Laffor shooting wide before Malajila saw his header fly straight at Kidiaba. — Supersport.com
Online Reporter