The Nedbank Cup played host to an intense clash as Stellenbosch FC came up against dynamic football titans, Mamelodi Sundowns. From a statistical perspective, this match was particularly intriguing, bringing in a wealth of data that seemed almost as layered and complex as the gameplay itself.

The away team, Mamelodi Sundowns, displayed commendable sharpness in attack. Early on in the first half at 12 minutes and 9 seconds, they proved their superiority when they struck their first goal, taking an early lead in the game. They further consolidated this lead in the second half at 73 minutes and 49 seconds, leaving Stellenbosch FC to play catch-up.

Stellenbosch FC managed to respond with a goal of their own at 80 minutes and 49 seconds into the second half. However, Mamelodi Sundowns' solid defense proved to be insurmountable, ensuring their victory.

In terms of discipline on the pitch, the game was marked by several incidents warranting sanctions from the referee. The home team demonstrated a more aggressive approach, with Stellenbosch collecting three yellow cards during the match compared to the Mamelodi Sundowns' two. The first three infractions against the home team were awarded at 22 minutes and 32 seconds in the first half, 58 minutes and 19 seconds in the first half, and at 82 minutes and 49 seconds in the second half.

In contrast, Mamelodi Sundowns received their yellow cards at 15 minutes and 9 seconds in the first half and at 94 minutes and 16 seconds in the second half. Despite the frequent sanctions, neither team received any red cards during the match.

In terms of set-pieces, specifically corner kicks, it was a fair contest. Both teams earned an equal share of corner kicks, with three awarded to each side. These set pieces did not translate into goals, but they proposed certain threats to both defenses.

Taking into consideration all these statistical factors, the trend leans towards Mamelodi Sundowns, their early goals, and their disciplined defensive strategy proving vital to their victory. The litany of yellow cards against Stellenbosch FC suggests they might have been too aggressive in their approach, affecting their play and providing the opposing team with advantageous free-kicks.

While corner kick performances were evenly matched, successfully capitalizing on these opportunities may have served as the game-changer for Stellenbosch.

A more disciplined performance and effective utilization of set pieces could perhaps have changed the outcome in favour of the home team. As for Mamelodi Sundowns, their strategy paid off, maintaining an effective attacking and defensive balance to secure the win.

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