Mamelodi Sundowns began their Betway Premiership campaign with a dramatic 3-2 victory over TS Galaxy at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday, overturning a second-half deficit to claim all three points.
The Brazilians were eager to make a strong start and were handed an early opportunity when Junior Zindonga conceded a penalty.
Brayan Leon, who joined Sundowns in January and impressed during the second half of last season, stepped up to convert from the spot and register his first goal of the new campaign.
Slippery and wet conditions affected the tempo of the contest, with both sides struggling with their touches and timing of tackles.
Sundowns largely controlled possession, but Galaxy had a clear plan and remained dangerous whenever they pressed high.
One such moment produced the equaliser in the 33rd minute, with veteran striker Victor Letsoalo finishing to bring Galaxy level.
Letsoalo then completed the turnaround in the 77th minute.
The experienced forward rose above a crowd of players inside the Sundowns penalty area to connect with a free-kick delivery, with the ball taking a difficult trajectory before beating Ronwen Williams and giving Galaxy a 2-1 lead.
Sundowns responded by increasing the pressure as they searched for a way back into the contest.
The visitors eventually found their equaliser late in the match before continuing to push for the winner.
Mihlali Mkhulise, who had been introduced in the second half, then produced the decisive moment in the final minute of stoppage time.
The midfielder found the back of the net to complete a remarkable turnaround and seal all three points for Sundowns in their opening league fixture.
The result will provide Miguel Cardosoโs side with plenty of confidence, particularly after they had to recover from being behind for the first time in the contest.
They will now turn their attention to another major test when they travel to FNB Stadium to face Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday.
