Mamelodi Sundowns kicked off their CAF Champions League Group C campaign in emphatic style, securing a commanding 3–1 victory over DRC visitors Saint-Eloi Lupopo at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The South African champions assertively showcased their dominance, setting a high standard for their group rivals.
The match started with an electrifying pace as Sundowns wasted no time in stamping their authority on the pitch. Just four minutes in, forward Nuno Santos broke the deadlock, finishing off a well-timed assist from Miguel Reisinho. This early lead set the tone for a high-tempo display from the hosts, leaving fans optimistic of a comprehensive display.
Despite Sundowns’ early momentum, Lupopo proved to be a resilient opponent. They organised themselves compactly and effectively, disrupting Sundowns’ fluid attacking play. Their perseverance was rewarded shortly before the halftime whistle when Ramos Kashala capitalised on a rare defensive lapse to level the score in the 44th minute, aided by a clever pass from Carel Twite.
The equaliser, though a brief setback for Sundowns, ignited their resolve for the second half.
As the second half unfolded, Sundowns tightened their grip on the match. In the 61st minute, Chilean midfielder Marcelo Allende restored the hosts’ lead with a composed finish, deftly assisted by the ever-influential Santos, who demonstrated his creativity and vision.
This goal reignited Sundowns’ spirited attacking rhythm, leaving Lupopo struggling to keep pace. Santos, who had already made a significant impact, capped off his brilliant evening by adding a second goal in the 77th minute. Meeting a precise delivery from substitute Arthur Sales, he slotted it home with ease to seal the victory for Sundowns.
With two goals and an assist to his name, the Portuguese attacker was undeniably the driving force behind Sundowns’ dominant performance, showcasing why he is one of the key players in the squad.
The resounding win sends a strong message to the rest of Group C: Mamelodi Sundowns are here to compete with serious intent. With confidence brimming, they now sit atop their group following Al Hilal’s narrow 2-1 victory over Rulani Mokwena’s MC Alger on Friday afternoon in Kigali, Rwanda.
On the other hand, St Eloi Lupopo will need to regroup quickly as they look to revive their campaign in their next fixture, having faced a harsh introduction to Africa’s elite club competition.
