Brayan Leon’s scoring streak in vain as Mamelodi Sundowns lose title advantage

You have to feel for Brayan Leon. The Mamelodi Sundowns striker enjoyed his best football this month in the Betway Premiership, scoring six goals and registering two assists in four games, but that may not be enough to secure his team the title.

Sundowns lost 3-2 to TS Galaxy in their last league match of the season at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday night, handing the advantage to Orlando Pirates, who only need to beat Durban City at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday to claim the title due to a superior goal difference. Or, alternatively, they can wait a week later and beat Orbit College.

If Pirates stick to the script, Sundowns will relinquish the title for the first time in nine years – a pain that will cut deep for the club and Masandawana, who have grown accustomed to dominating over the past eight seasons.

Leon arrived at the club in January and made an immediate impact. He has scored 15 goals and registered two assists in 24 matches across all competitions.

The Colombian has shown the qualities of a complete No 9. He attacks shots at both the near and far post, while possessing deft touches that are able to release his teammates, which is why the team has been playing to his strengths this month.

With the title nearly gone, Leon can't afford to drop his head. He must bring his scoring boots when Sundowns face AS FAR in the CAF Champions League final, starting with the first leg at Loftus Versfeld on Sunday afternoon (4pm).

Winning the Champions League will be a greater reward and achievement for Sundowns. This may explain why they've ‘seemingly traded’ one piece of silverware for another – even though you have to feel for Leon, who has given his all since his arrival at the club.