Kaizer Chiefs ‘fear no-one’ as Mamelodi Sundowns visit FNB Stadium

Kaizer Chiefs defender Inacio Miguel says his side have no fear of Mamelodi Sundowns and are capable of claiming three points when the two South African heavyweights meet at FNB Stadium on Saturday.

Miguel accepts that Sundowns remain one of the dominant forces in African football, particularly after their success in the CAF Champions League. However, the Kaizer Chiefs centre-back believes the hosts can match the reigning continental champions and continue their positive start to the league campaign.

The Angolan was speaking at a pre-match press conference at Naturena on Thursday, two days after Kaizer Chiefs moved to the top of the standings with a 2-0 victory over Sekhukhune United.

The result means Amakhosi will begin the weekend at the summit, while second-placed Orlando Pirates dropped points after being held to a 1-1 draw by AmaZulu FC in midweek.

Miguel said the status of their opponents would not alter Kaizer Chiefs’ approach or ambition.

“We have to respect the fact that Sundowns won the CAF Champions League, but at the same time we are Kaizer Chiefs, and we fight for our goals, and we fear no one! It doesn’t matter if they are champions of the league or the Champions League,” declared Miguel.

The defender also stressed the importance of building confidence early in the season, while acknowledging that the campaign remains at an early stage.

“Although it’s very early, I think it’s important to start on the right foot, and in that way we can give confidence to ourselves and our supporters.

“We haven’t achieved anything yet, and we understand that it’s a long journey, but we have a lot to achieve this season.”

Sundowns will arrive at the Calabash after securing a narrow 3-2 win over TS Galaxy in Mpumalanga. That victory gives the visitors momentum of their own as they prepare for a fixture between two of the country’s biggest clubs.

The previous meeting between Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns ended in a fiercely contested 1-1 draw at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in May. That result damaged Sundowns’ hopes of winning a ninth successive league title.

A win on Saturday would strengthen Kaizer Chiefs’ position at the top of the table, particularly with Orlando Pirates having failed to beat AmaZulu FC during the week.

For Sundowns, the match offers an opportunity to underline their status as a leading force in South African and African football, while Kaizer Chiefs will be aiming to protect their place at the summit and extend the confidence generated by their victory over Sekhukhune United.

Miguel’s comments have added another layer of intensity to a contest already carrying considerable significance. While he acknowledged the respect due to the CAF Champions League winners, his message was clear: Kaizer Chiefs intend to compete without being intimidated by the champions.

Kick-off is at 15:00.