Mamelodi Sundowns had a successful start to their CAF Champions League qualifying campaign with a convincing 4-0 victory over Burundi’s Bumamuru FC in Tanzania.
The Brazilians secured their win with goals from Lucas Ribeiro, who scoed two, Lesiba Nku and Peter Shalulile.
Sundowns began the game with a strong performance, aiming to control possession and break through Bumamuru FC’s defence.
The visitors were awarded a penalty in the 13th minute after a handball in the penalty area and Lucas Ribeiro calmly converted the penalty to give his team the lead.
Sundowns continued to press for a second goal with Junior Mendieta and Teboho Mokoena having attempts that narrowly missed the target.
Lucas Ribeiro added his second goal of the match, extending the lead for Sundowns. Lesiba Nku capitalized on an opportunity in the box, making it 3-0 for the away side before the first half concluded.
The second half started similarly, with Sundowns trying to break through Bumamuru FC’s resilient defence but Terrence Mashego made a crucial defensive intervention to clear away danger from a free-kick.
With 20 minutes left, Rulani Mokwena made several substitutions to refresh the team, including Lebohang Maboe, Bongani Zungu, Shalulile, Khuliso Mudau, and Sipho Mbule.
Shalulile, returning from injury, scored the fourth goal with 10 minutes remaining in the match. This marked his 105th goal in all competitions for club teams, setting a new PSL record. Sundowns comfortably held on to their four-goal lead, securing the victory.