The Brazilian side needed extra time to overcome a resilient Polokwane outfit in a five-goal thriller that kept the home crowd on edge until the final whistle.
High-Drama Encounter
Polokwane City took a surprise early lead through Bonginkosi Dlamini in the seventh minute. Sundowns responded with goals from Tebogo Mokoena (22’) and Antonio van Wyk (31’) to turn the contest around before half-time.
Polokwane refused to fold and equalised through Tidimalo Molokwane in the 37th minute, forcing the match into extra time after a 2-2 stalemate at the end of 90 minutes.
In the additional period, Cassius Mailula produced the decisive moment, scoring in the 113th minute to send Masandawana through to the last four.
Allende’s Influence
While not on the scoresheet, Allende controlled the midfield with authority throughout the evening. His ability to dictate tempo, recover possession and link play proved vital as Sundowns navigated a difficult examination from a well-organised Polokwane side.
The award recognises a complete midfield display that underpinned the Brazilians’ progress in the competition.
Sundowns now join Orlando Pirates in the semi-finals as they continue their quest for another MTN8 title.