Kaizer Chiefs hold Mameldodi Sundowns as title race swings towards Orlando Pirates

Khuliso Mudau of Mamelodi Sundowns challenged by Bradley Cross of Kaizer Chiefs during the Betway Premiership match at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday. Kaizer Chiefs held Mamelodi Sundowns to a 1–1 draw in a Betway Premiership clashat Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday night, indirectlyswinging the advantage to sworn rivals Orlando Pirates in the title race. Sundowns remain top of the standings with 65 points, just three ahead of Pirates, who have a game in hand.

Should Pirates win that match against Magesi on Saturday, they would move to the summit due to a superior goal difference, with two games to spare. Chiefs, meanwhile, remain third on the log with 48 points, but will feel these were two points dropped,as AmaZulu, in fourth place, continue to apply pressure in the race for a top-three finish. Given the contrast in fortunes between the teams in recent years, Sundowns were expected to ease past Amakhosi – much to the displeasure of Pirates supporters, who hoped their rivals would “do them a favour”.

Chiefs and their supporters answered that call with a spirited display, although a win would have been more valuable. Clad in vibrant gold and black, and waving red and gold flags, the travelling supporters brought colour to a subdued Loftus, dominating the stands. On the pitch, however, Chiefs took time to settle, perhaps wary of their poor record in Pretoria, having lost their last five matches there, with their previous victory dating back to April 2021.