Mamelodi Sundowns saw their dominant run in 2026 come to a dramatic halt after being held to a 1-1 draw by Stellenbosch FC at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday night.
Heading into the clash, Miguel Cardoso’s side looked unstoppable, riding high on a 10-match winning streak in the Betway Premiership. And for much of the evening, it seemed business as usual.
Midfielder Tsiki Ntsabeleng put the Brazilians ahead in the 27th minute, finishing off a slick attacking move after a clever exchange with Arthur Sales. The goal capped off a spell of dominance, with Sundowns controlling possession and dictating the tempo.
But Stellenbosch refused to roll over.
Earlier, Devin Titus had already signalled intent, forcing a sharp block from goalkeeper Ronwen Williams. And after the break, the visitors grew in confidence.
Attacking threats from Iqraam Rayners and Omega Mdaka kept the Sundowns defence on edge, while goalkeeper Sage Stephens stood tall at the other end, pulling off crucial saves to keep his side within touching distance.
As the clock ticked down, Sundowns appeared set to grind out yet another victory. But in a cruel twist late in the match, Stellenbosch were awarded a penalty.
Up stepped Tshegofatso Mabasa, who kept his composure to slot home the equaliser and stun the home crowd.
The final whistle confirmed a rare slip for Sundowns — their first dropped points of the year — and brought an emphatic end to their winning streak.
The result leaves Sundowns second on the log, just one point behind Orlando Pirates, although they still hold a crucial game in hand. Meanwhile, Stellenbosch remain ninth, but now sit just two points shy of breaking into the top eight.
For Cardoso and his men, it’s a reminder that even the most dominant runs can be tested — and that in football, the final whistle is all that truly matters.
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