Mamelodi Sundowns took a commanding step towards the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League, with a convincing 3–0 victory over Mali’s Stade Malien in the first leg of their quarter-final clash, at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria, South Africa.
The South African champions opened the scoring in the 33rd minute, when defender Khuliso Mudau finished from close range following a dangerous delivery into the box from Arthur Sales.
Stade Malien attempted to respond early in the second half and created opportunities through Ousmane Coulibaly and Taddeus Nkeng, but goalkeeper Ronwen Williams remained alert to deny the visitors.
Sundowns doubled their advantage in the 54th minute when Brayan León turned home from close range after a well-placed cross from Nuno Santos.
Their dominance was rewarded again in the 73rd minute when Rayners found the back of the net with a composed finish from inside the box after being set up by Santos.
The goal was briefly reviewed by VAR before being confirmed, sealing a comfortable 3–0 lead for the hosts.
The result gives Mamelodi Sundowns a strong advantage heading into the second leg.
For Stade Malien, they will need a major turnaround at home to keep their continental ambitions alive.