MAGESI FC SHOCK MAMELODI SUNDOWNS TO WIN CARLING KNOCKOUT FINAL

Magesi FC pulled off a stunning 2-1 victory over Mamelodi Sundowns in the Carling Knockout final on Saturday evening at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein. Sundowns dominated the early stages, controlling possession and creating scoring opportunities. Magesi goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze made crucial saves to deny Teboho Mokoena and Peter Shalulile, keeping his team in the game.

The Brazilians eventually broke the deadlock in the 36th minute through a beautifully crafted goal. Lucas Ribeiro’s excellent pass found Rayners in the penalty area, and the striker opened up his body and curled a shot beyond the reach of Chipezeze for 1-0.Sundowns took their 1-0 lead into the halftime break, appearing to be in total control of the match. However, Magesi FC equalized just three minutes into the second half, courtesy of a well-worked goal. Edmore Chirambadare did great work down the left flank before clipping a cross to the back post, allowing Tshepo Kakora to score with a downward header for 1-1.

Magesi FC gained momentum from their equalizer and created a spell of pressure around the midway point of the second half. Sundowns responded by shuffling their pack with 15 minutes of regulation time to play, bringing on Thapelo Morena, Neo Maema, and Kutlwano Letlhaku. However, it was Magesi FC who stunned their illustrious opponents with a second goal, arriving on 87 minutes. A flick-on from a corner kick fell for the late-arriving Delano Abrahams, and he provided an unorthodox but effective finish with his knee for 2-1.

In response, Sundowns threw everything but the kitchen sink at Magesi’s defense in what remained of the game, but the underdogs held firm for a famous cup final victory.The win marks a historic triumph for Magesi FC, while Sundowns will look to bounce back in their upcoming CAF Champions League match against AS Maniema Union.Final Score: Magesi FC (0) 2 (Kakora 48′, Abrahams 87′), Mamelodi Sundowns (1) 1 (Rayners 36′)