Mamelodi Sundowns have booked their place in the Carling Knockout semi-finals after securing a narrow 1-0 victory over Golden Arrows at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Tuesday evening.
The Brazilians controlled much of the encounter but faced a determined Golden Arrows defence, with goalkeeper Dumisani Msibi producing several impressive saves.
Sundowns came close to opening the scoring in the first half, as Iqraam Rayners and Siyanda Ndlovu threatened the Arrows goal. Ndlovu struck the crossbar, while Rayners saw another effort clip the post.
Despite their attacking pressure, Sundowns went into half-time without finding the breakthrough.
The decisive moment arrived in the 69th minute when Rayners finished clinically after Antonio Van Wyk’s cross-shot to give Sundowns the lead.
Golden Arrows pushed for an equaliser, with substitute Philani Khumalo firing over three minutes later, but the visitors could not find a way past the Sundowns defence.
Sundowns held on to secure the win and advance to the last four.
The Pretoria-based side will now prepare for their CAF Super Cup clash against USM Alger on Sunday, 8 November.
Golden Arrows are set to face Orlando Pirates away in the Betway Premiership later this month.
