Mamelodi Sundowns secured a 2-0 victory over rivals SuperSport United to claim the bragging rights in the Tshwane derby played at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in the Betway Premiership.

Signing new After 62 minutes, Iqraam Rayners scored and Lucas Ribeiro increased Sundowns’ lead at Loftus Versfeld, where the Bulls play rugby union.

With 13 minutes left, Sundowns custodian Ronwen Williams saved on Gape Moralo to prevent a SuperSport comeback.

Despite the triumph, Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi, promoted from an assistant role when Rulani Mokwena left for Wydad Casablanca, raised doubts.

“We were not sufficiently ruthless when attacking in the first half. I was also unhappy with the number of times we conceded possession cheaply,” he said.

South African internationals Khuliso Mudau and Teboho Mokoena were rested for the season opening by Mngqithi.

Mokoena was named tournament player of the tournament following the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast this year after scoring a stunning goal in a shock last-16 triumph over 2022 World Cup semi-finalists Morocco.

According to reports, the coach disapproved of their behaviour.