Mandela's Sundowns secure thrilling win as Senaji's solid defense holds for Big Bullets

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STARS ABROAD Mandela's Sundowns secure thrilling win as Senaji's solid defense holds for Big Bullets

Festus Chuma 18:45 - 09.08.2023

Wednesday proved to be an eventful day for Kenyan football enthusiasts as Brian Mandela and Clyde Senaji, showcased their prowess on the field for their respective clubs.

Kenyan internationals Brian Mandela and Clyde Senaji showcased their prowess on Wednesday as they graced the pitches for their respective clubs. 

Mandela made his presence felt for Mamelodi Sundowns in a thrilling clash against Kaizer Chiefs in a South African Premier Soccer League match played at Lucas Masterpiece Moripe Stadium.

The match, which ended with a nail-biting scoreline of 2-1 in favor of Sundowns, witnessed Mandela's impactful contribution. 

Although he stepped onto the field as a substitute in the 77th minute, replacing Moroccan defender Abdelmounaim Boutouil, Mandela wasted no time in leaving his mark.

Lucas Ribeiro Costa scored the opener for Msandawana  after capitalizing on a defensive lapse from the visitors. 

Peter Shalulile's second-half brilliance created numerous opportunities, but Chiefs seized possession through Du Preez, who struck an equalizer in the 84th minute.A pinpoint cross from substitute Tebogo Potsane set the stage for this remarkable turnaround.

Yet, the spotlight was destined to shine on Sundowns' Neo Maema, who clinched victory for his team in the final moments of the game. 

Maema's shot beat Chiefs' goalkeeper Petersen, whose uncharacteristic error allowed the ball to slip past. 

This dramatic finish solidified Sundowns' position at the top of the South Africa Premier Soccer League standings, boasting an impressive six points from just two matches.

Meanwhile, on a different pitch but with equal passion, Clyde Senaji exhibited his defensive prowess for Malawi Super League side Nyasa Big Bullets. 

Senaji's unwavering performance helped secure a hard-fought goalless draw against Mafco FC at Chitowe Stadium.

Senaji, formerly with Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) side Tusker FC, was an immovable force throughout the game.

His commanding presence at the back denied Mafco strikers Peter Kasonga, Innocent Makawano, and Gift Soko any room for a breakthrough. 

 Big Bullets created multiple chances in the first half, but Mafco's goalkeeper, Christopher Mikuwa, exhibited exceptional agility and skill to thwart their efforts. 

As the final whistle blew, Nyasa Big Bullets remained firmly in the race, holding onto the third spot on the Malawi Super League table. 

With an impressive tally of 32 points from 16 matches this season, their aspirations for league glory burned brighter than ever.