In a stunning upset that shook the Betway Premiership, Lamontville Golden Arrows defeated reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns 1-0 on Wednesday, handing Masandawana their first loss of the season and securing their first victory over the giants in over five years.
The electric atmosphere at the King Zwelithini Stadium in Umlazi was rewarded with a heroic performance from Abafana Bes’thende, who climbed to ninth on the log with a win built on relentless energy and a clinical first-half finish.
The match marked a forgettable 50th game in charge for Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso, as his team, despite enjoying a dominant 73% possession, looked uncharacteristically sluggish. The loss sees Sundowns remain second, now trailing leaders Sekhukhune United by a point.
Arrows set the tone early, refusing to be intimidated. Siyanda Ndlovu showcased dazzling footwork in the ninth minute to breach the Sundowns defence, setting a precedent for the half. The home side was controversially denied a clear chance when Junior Dion was incorrectly flagged offside when through on goal, but the Ivorian striker would not be denied for long.
After missing two earlier opportunities, Dion became the hero in the 30th minute. Rising highest to meet a perfectly delivered inswinging corner from Pule Khumalo, he powered a header past a stranded Ronwen Williams to send the home crowd into a frenzy.
Sundowns, who managed only one shot in the entire first half, attempted to rally after the break. The introduction of new signing Nuno Santos added spark, but the Arrows’ defence, marshalled superbly by Thakasani Mbanjwa in goal, stood firm. Mbanjwa made a crucial intervention in the 73rd minute to smother a dangerous cross destined for Lebo Mothiba.
The visitors’ best chances fell to Bennet Mokoena, who fired wide from a tight angle, and Mothobi Mvala, who sent a late header over the bar. Arrows could have sealed the victory deep in stoppage time, but Williams produced a spectacular save to deny Nhlanhla Zwane from point-blank range.
The final whistle sparked wild celebrations, marking a famous night for Golden Arrows and a stark warning to the league that the champions are fallible. Arrows will look to build on this momentum against Orbit College on Saturday, while a frustrated Sundowns must regroup quickly for their clash with Richards Bay.
Line-ups:
Lamontville Golden Arrows: Mbanjwa, Phillips (Matlaba 80’), Komara, Jiyane, Cele, Maxwele (Shitolo 90+2’), Dlamini, Zwane, Khumalo (Cissé 70’), Dion (Karlese 70’), Ndlovu (Sithole 70’)
Mamelodi Sundowns: Williams, Modiba, Cupido (Mvala 61’), Khoza, Mudau, Allende, Mokoena, Adams (Santos 46’), Matthews (Ntsabeleng 78’), Shalulile (Mothiba 59’), Sales (B. Mokoena 59’)
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