Sundowns Silence Amakhosi” – Mamelodi Sundowns Players Celebrate Crucial Win Over Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium.
Kaizer Chiefs’ unbeaten start to the season came to a dramatic end as Mamelodi Sundowns secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory in a pulsating Betway Premiership clash at a packed FNB Stadium on Saturday.
The highly anticipated matchup, delayed by 30 minutes due to a vibrant crowd and nearby Comic Con traffic, lived up to its billing. Chiefs, riding a wave of momentum under new head coach Nasreddine Nabi, sought revenge for their 5-1 loss to Sundowns in May.
Chiefs made a blistering start, with Ranga Chivaviro’s clinical finish igniting the stadium and sending the home faithful into raptures. The goal seemed to set the tone for a potential Amakhosi victory.
However, Sundowns, exemplifying their champion mentality, remained composed under pressure. Lucas Ribeiro’s expertly crafted equalizer restored parity, sending the teams into halftime locked at 1-1.
As tensions escalated, Sundowns’ experience and poise told. A well-orchestrated team move culminated in the decisive goal, silencing the Amakhosi faithful.
“We showed great character and resilience,” said Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi. “Our players deserve credit for their determination.”
Chiefs’ defeat marks their first loss of the season, while Sundowns extend their unbeaten streak.
“We created enough chances, but couldn’t capitalize,” Nabi said. “We’ll learn from this and move forward.”
The electric atmosphere and thrilling football on display underscored the rivalry between these two South African giants.
Match Stats:
- Kaizer Chiefs 1-2 Mamelodi Sundowns
- Goals: Ranga Chivaviro (Chiefs), Lucas Ribeiro, unnamed player
- Venue: FNB Stadium, Johannesburg
Post-Match Reactions:
“We stayed focused and took our chances,” Mngqithi said. “Our team’s unity was key.”
“We’ll regroup and bounce back stronger,” Nabi vowed.
Man of the Match: Lucas Ribeiro (Mamelodi Sundowns)
Upcoming Fixtures:
- Kaizer Chiefs vs. Orlando Pirates (October 3)
- Mamelodi Sundowns vs. SuperSport United (October 4)
Betway Premiership Standings:
- Mamelodi Sundowns (16 points)
- Kaizer Chiefs (13 points)
- Orlando Pirates (12 points)