Ribeiro-less Mamelodi Sundowns battling to keep their Premiership title aspirations on track

Mamelodi Sundowns missed the chance to seize the top spot in the Betway Premiership, managing only a 1-1 draw against lowly Marumo Gallants on Wednesday night.

The match showcased Sundowns' attack yet again, featuring Iqraam Rayners, who continued to carry the goal-scoring burden in the absence of Lucas Ribeiro.

Rayners, fresh off a brace against Magesi FC, opened the scoring with a clinical finish in the box with precision, underscoring his burgeoning talent. This goal marked his seventh in just eight league appearances this season, and it was hoped that it would spark the fire needed for Sundowns to claim victory.

Despite a dynamic front three boasting the talents of Rayners, Peter Shalulile, and Arthur Sales, the Gallants' defence effectively contained Sundowns' attack for large stretches of the match. Sundowns struggled to find the fluid connections often displayed in their play, leaving their fans wondering if they could truly adapt to Ribeiro's absence.

The match also saw the encouraging return of Khuliso Mudau, who rejoined the action in the final 20 minutes following a protracted dispute that had sidelined him since the Club World Cup. His presence on the pitch served as both a morale boost for his teammates and the national team, Bafana Bafana, as they prepare for upcoming international fixtures.

After the match, coach Cardoso expressed his concerns regarding the team's attacking depth:

"It’s clear that the team needs extra energy and quality up front. We lost important resources from last season. It’s only one name, but his name had a lot of impact on the team.” He acknowledged that they were still searching for greater cohesion within the squad.

It must perform consistently to the high standards expected of Sundowns.

Cardoso highlighted that some among the squad are still young and unaccustomed to the pressure of leading a team renowned for its winning mentality: “We believe in our players, but some of them are very young and they can’t cope with the responsibility to carry a team like Mamelodi Sundowns that needs to win every match," he said.

As Sundowns eye the CAF Champions League ahead, the coach reiterated the urgent need for reinforcements, stating, “If we can find the right players, we’ll be stronger as the CAF Champions League is also approaching. To play in the group stages, the level rises, and we need to be up to that standard.”

The draw leaves Sundowns at risk of falling further behind in the title race, with fierce competitors in the PSL also gearing up for the challenges ahead.

With the need for new signings underlined, supporters will be eager to see how the club addresses its shortcomings before facing the escalating demands of both local and continental competitions.

Sundowns are preparing for Saturday's home fixture against Durban City at Lucas Moripe Stadium, amidst internal pressures and mounting expectations from supporters.

Cardoso will be keen to restore confidence among fans following recent performances that have sparked discontent.

This weekend’s game will not only be crucial for maintaining momentum in the league, but it will also coincide with the recent announcement of ex-Sundowns defender Terrence Mashego's transfer to Durban City.

The departure of the highly rated left-back has raised eyebrows among supporters who were curious about his potential role in the team following his limited game time at Sundowns.

Sundowns will need to put their best foot forward if they are to secure the much-needed victory against Gavin Hunt's Durban City club, which may benefit from the energised spirit of their recent acquisitions.