The second half saw Sundowns turn up the tempo just enough to kill the contest…

By Advent Shoko

Mamelodi Sundowns began their 2026 Betway Premiership campaign exactly how champions are expected to, with a controlled, convincing 2-0 victory over Orbit College under the lights at Loftus Versfeld on Monday night.

After a lengthy international break, there were questions about rhythm and sharpness. Sundowns answered them calmly, efficiently and without drama, collecting all three points in their first league outing of the year.

Facing Orbit College for the first time in competitive football, Masandawana dominated possession early, patiently moving the ball and forcing their opponents to defend deep. The breakthrough arrived in the 21st minute, and it came through sheer pressure.

Arthur Sales harassed the Orbit College goalkeeper into an error, reacted quickest to the loose ball and produced an acrobatic finish to give Sundowns a deserved lead. It was a goal that summed up the Brazilian’s work ethic, sharp, aggressive and decisive.

Sundowns went into the break 1–0 up and firmly in control. Orbit College showed organisation and discipline, but they struggled to create meaningful chances, while Ronwen Williams remained largely a spectator in goal.

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The second half saw Sundowns turn up the tempo just enough to kill the contest. On 64 minutes, debutant Brayan Lèon made an instant impact, calmly converting after a teasing delivery from Thato Sibiya to double the lead.

That goal took the sting out of the match. From there, Sundowns managed the game with maturity, circulating possession, limiting risks and ensuring a clean sheet to complete a professional night’s work.

Sibiya’s performance stood out on the evening. Composed, energetic and influential on debut, he was rewarded with the Betway Premiership Man of the Match award, a strong start in a squad brimming with depth and competition.

The victory was achieved despite notable absences. Sundowns were without several regular starters, including Khuliso Mudau, Divine Lunga, and Teboho Mokoena, while recent signing Monnapule Saleng was also unavailable as he continues his recovery from injury.

Still, the depth of the squad once again proved decisive. Those called upon delivered without fuss, underlining why Sundowns remain the benchmark in South African football.

Two goals, a clean sheet and three points, not spectacular, but highly effective. Mamelodi Sundowns have laid an early marker, kicking off 2026 with authority and purpose.

MATCHDAY SQUAD

Starting XI:

• 30 Ronwen Williams (C)
• 37 Johannes
• 20 Grant Kekana
• 27 Morena
• 45 Thato Sibiya
• 21 Mkhulise
• 8 Adams
• 43 Kutlwano Letlhaku
• 17 Matthews
• 9 Arthur Sales
• 35 Mothiba

Substitutes:

• Denis Onyango
• Khoza
• Mdunyelwa
• Basadien
• Reisinho
• Allende
• Zwane
• Santos
• Brayan Lèon