Champions Mamelodi Sundowns started the 2023/24 season on a positive note defeating Sekhukhune United 2-1 in a DStv Premiership match at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Friday evening.
The Brazilians shot to the lead after their trusted marksman Peter Shalulile netted from the penalty spot in the 12th minute. Match referee Sikhumbuzo Gasa awarded the Tshwane giants a penalty after Babina Noko defender Edwin Gyimah had handled the ball inside the box.
As if conceding early was not enough, Babina Noko were reduced to 10 men when Gasa red carded Vusimuzi Mncube for a foul on Teboho Mokoena in the 16th minute.
The Brazilians extended their lead in the 57th minute after Lucas Ribeiro Costa beat Sangare from a Thapelo Maseko pass.
Jamie Webber, who joined Babina Noko from SuperSport United, cut the deficit into half when he beat his former Matsatsantsa a Pitori teammate and Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams with a low free kick in the 61st minute.
Sundowns also finished the match with 10 players after Gasa sent Rivaldo Coetzee off following his retaliation on Webber.
