Mamelodi Sundowns suffered their first defeat under coach Miguel Cardoso, losing 1-0 to Raja Casablanca in a fiery CAF Champions League Group B match on Saturday night at Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca.
The match was marked by drama and tension, with three red cards issued. Sundowns’ Bathusi Aubaas received a straight red for a reckless challenge in the first half, reducing the South African side to 10 men before conceding the decisive goal.
Raja’s Benaissa Benamar capitalised on disorganised Sundowns’ defending during first-half stoppage time, scoring from close range after a precise cross from Youssef Belammari. Raja dominated the second half, forcing Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams into several crucial saves.
Sundowns’ attempts to equalise were further hampered when Khuliso Mudau was sent off in the 90th minute. Raja also ended the match with 10 players after Marouane Zila was dismissed for a bad challenge on Teboho Mokoena.
Despite the loss, Sundowns remain in contention in Group B, sitting second with five points from four matches. However, they trail leaders AS FAR by three points, with only two games remaining.
Raja Casablanca’s victory boosts them to four points, keeping their qualification hopes alive, while AS Maniema Union remain at the bottom with three points.