Veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango delivered a composed and commanding performance as Mamelodi Sundowns took a significant step toward defending their Betway Premiership title with a 3-0 win over Stellenbosch FC on Sunday, May 11, at the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium.
The former Uganda Cranes captain registered his fifth clean sheet in nine starts this season, playing a key role in maintaining Sundowns’ league-best defensive record, which now stands at just 13 goals conceded in 26 matches.
Despite the scoreline, Onyango was kept busy throughout the match, producing several crucial saves to deny Stellenbosch their first league goal against the reigning champions in 18 months.
Onyango was first called into action in the 36th minute, tipping over a dipping shot from distance.
Early in the second half, he dealt expertly with a direct free-kick before pulling off a reflex double save in the 65th minute, showcasing his enduring agility and experience at age 39.
His efforts came in support of a dominant Sundowns side that effectively sealed the match inside the opening 20 minutes.
Lucas Ribeiro, Iqraam Rayners and Arthur Sales all found the net in quick succession to put the hosts firmly in control.
The result moved Sundowns 15 points clear at the top of the table with only 15 still available to second-placed Orlando Pirates.
With three games remaining, the Brazilians now need just one more point to mathematically secure the title.
Their recent surge — which has seen them claim back-to-back wins against Richards Bay, Cape Town City and Chippa United — has brought them to the brink of an eighth successive league crown.
Onyango was substituted in the 82nd minute for Jody February, walking off to applause as Sundowns closed out the match comfortably.
