The warning signs were there for Sundowns as they lose to Stellies.

    Image: Lorenz Kohler Facebook

Stellenbosch FC dumped Mamelodi Sundowns out of the Nedbank Cup with a hard fought 2-1 win at Athlone Stadium, Cape Town.

Iqraam Rayners was Stellenbosch's hero as he bagged a brace, scoring in the 48th minute to cancel Sundowns' lead, before putting his side ahead in the 57th minute.

Starved of possession, with Sundowns controlling 78% of the ball, Steve Barker's boys remained resolute at the back, limiting the Brazilians to just four shots on target, despite having fashioned 20 attempts on goal.

In attack, Stellies thrived on efficiency, managing four shots on target, two of them converted to goals, from seven attempts.

Going into this game, concerning signs were there for Sundowns.

They had drawn three league games in a row, despite dominant performances, Sundowns didn't look convincing in the final third, uncharacteristically so for a team that is ruthless in front of goal.

Having lost to Stellenbosch, means Downs have won just one out of their last six matches, a 2-1 victory over Coton Sport in the Caf Champions League.

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With hopes of a treble gone, Sundowns will now turn their attention to the Caf Champions League.

They travel to Algeria to face CR Belouizdad on Saturday 22 April at Stade Nelson Mandela.

Coach Rulani Mokwena will hope his side recover in time from their Stellenbosch loss, rediscover their scoring boots, and be ready for what is expected to be a tough encounter.