Ndlovu praises Chiefs midfield duo after hard-fought Sundowns draw

Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Siphesihle Ndlovu has credited teammates Thabang Mthethwa and Lebogang Maboe for helping him produce a standout performance in the 1-1 draw with Mamelodi Sundowns at FNB Stadium.

The Betway Premiership contest took place in front of a packed crowd on Saturday afternoon, 15 August 2026, with Chiefs forced to settle for a point after a demanding battle against the defending champions.

Ndlovu was named Man of the Match after playing a key role in the hosts’ best moments. He supplied the assist for teenage forward Langelihle Phili’s 63rd-minute opener, but Kaizer Chiefs could not hold on for victory as Cassius Mailula equalised for Mamelodi Sundowns.

The performance continued a promising start to the campaign for Ndlovu, who has now provided important assists in consecutive matches for the Glamour Boys. His display also underlined how firmly he has established himself within the club’s current technical structure since joining Kaizer Chiefs from SuperSport United in July 2025.

Ndlovu said the contribution of Mthethwa and Maboe in midfield had helped give him the freedom to influence the match. He praised their work rate, particularly in dealing with Mamelodi Sundowns’ ability to move quickly through midfield during transitions.

“It was a great effort from the lads, and I am proud of the outcome we got. Obviously, we wanted all three points but, against the champions of Africa, we’ll take the one point and move on to the next game,” Ndlovu told Chiefs’ media.

“I couldn’t have done it alone.”

The midfielder highlighted the collective effort behind his individual award and insisted both of his midfield partners could also have been recognised after their performances against Masandawana.

“Credit goes to everyone involved, particularly my midfield partners, ‘Ox’ (Mthethwa) and Lebo (Maboe). We all put in a proper shift, and I am grateful to have them alongside me. Either of them would have deserved the award.”

The result leaves Chiefs with work to do as they seek to prove their title credentials away from home. Their next Betway Premiership fixture will take them to KwaZulu-Natal, where they will face Richards Bay at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Wednesday evening, 26 August 2026.

The trip will provide another test of the Soweto club’s early-season form, while Ndlovu will look to maintain his growing influence in the centre of the pitch. His ability to create chances, combined with the industry of Mthethwa and Maboe, has given Kaizer Chiefs an encouraging platform as the campaign develops.