Best & Worst: Baroka vs Mamelodi Sundowns (TKO)

From Andile Jali to Reyaad Pieterse, TFG SoccerClub senior writer MARSHALL GOUTS rates the best and worst performers from Baroka’s 2-0 victory against Mamelodi Sundowns in the Telkom Knockout Cup quarter-finals.

Best:

Andile Jali: 7/10

The Bafana Bafana international was a rare shinning ray of light in a dim and lethargic performace from the Absa Premiership. Bossed the midfield for large parts of the encounter, but was let down by those further forward than him. Was undoubtedly Sundowns’ best player on the pitch.

Talent Chawaphiwa: 8/10

The pack and tricy winger’s stock continues to rise in South African football following yet another attacking masterclass of a performance. The 26-year-old was beaming with confidence throughout the clash and often let Sundowns defender Lyle Lakay for dead.

Mduduzi Mdantsane: 8/10

The 23-year-old was integral to Baroka’s victory as he not only limited the attacking threat of Jali and Tiyani Mabunda by playing far forward, but he also played a huge part in the all-important second goal which killed off Sundowns.

Thabiso Semenya: 8/10

Marshaled the defence superbly and did an excellent job in dealing with the attacking trio of Gaston Sirino, Toni Silva and Lebogang Maboe. Made a few last-ditch tackles which abruptly ended the Sundowns attack.

Worst:

Reyaad Pieterse: 4/10

Endured a torrid time at the office, conceding what can be labelled as two sucky punchers as goals. The former Kaizer Chiefs and SuperSport United shot-stopper must shoulder responsibility for the second goal after being wrong-footed.

Mosa Lebusa: 3/10

Was hard done by for the penalty in the first-half which referee Victor Gomes believed was intentional. The former Ajax Cape Town star looked short of confidence throughout the clash which played right into the hands of the confident Baroka attackers, who targetted him and Lakay.

Lyle Lakay: 4/10

Arguably his worst showing in a Sundowns jersey since his arrival from Cape Town City. The former Bloemfontein Celtic winger was constantly being skinned by Chawaphiwa.

Toni Silva: 5/10

Didn’t offer much in the final third and lacked his usual silky skills. Was taken off early in the second-half.