Phili and Mailula goals earn Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns a share of the points

Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns drew 1-1 at FNB Stadium on Saturday after second-half goals from Langelihle Phili and Cassius Mailula settled a closely fought Betway Premiership match.

The hosts took the lead in the 64th minute when Phili continued his encouraging start to life at Kaizer Chiefs, but Mamelodi Sundowns responded 12 minutes later through the returning Mailula.

Neither side managed to impose itself during a largely uneventful first half. There was only one shot between the teams before the interval, with Kaizer Chiefs adopting a cautious approach against the much-fancied visitors.

Fernando Da Cruz named Thabo Moloisane in the starting line-up for a surprise debut as Kaizer Chiefs operated in a 5-3-2 formation. The shape appeared designed to limit Sundowns’ opportunities and allow the home side to rely on its defensive organisation rather than take control of possession.

Mamelodi Sundowns were also forced to adjust their midfield options in the absence of Teboho Mokoena. Bathusi Aubaas made his first start in almost 12 months as manager Miguel Cardoso’s side looked for a way past the Amakhosi defence.

The match looked increasingly likely to finish goalless until Kaizer Chiefs found a breakthrough midway through the second half.

Siphesihle Ndlovu created the opening by driving into the Sundowns penalty area before selecting Phili with his pass. The 20-year-old new signing kept his composure from close range to give the home side the advantage.

It was another significant contribution from Phili, who had been named Man of the Match in Kaizer Chiefs’ previous league fixture. His latest display further underlined the positive impression he has made since arriving at Naturena.

The goal prompted Sundowns to increase the pressure in search of an equaliser, and Cardoso turned to his substitutes for a response.

Mailula provided it almost immediately.

The forward had only just entered the match when he made an impact with his first touch in the 76th minute. A looping ball dropped into the Kaizer Chiefs penalty area, where goalkeeper Brandon Petersen misjudged its flight. Mailula was able to get the final touch and bring Sundowns level.

The equaliser denied either team the bragging rights at FNB Stadium, although both managers can take encouragement from a competitive contest that became more open after the interval.

Kaizer Chiefs will be particularly pleased with Phili’s continued influence, with the young attacker once again providing an important moment after his recent strong performance.

For Sundowns, Mailula’s immediate contribution will be equally encouraging following his return to the club. His first-touch finish ensured the visitors recovered from a largely frustrating opening hour.

Neither side could produce a second goal before the final whistle, leaving Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns to share the points after a match that only came to life in the closing stages.