Mamelodi Sundowns reinforced their dominance in the South African Premiership with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday, further solidifying their position at the top of the table.
The reigning champions showcased their resilience despite a demanding schedule, edging past their rivals in a match that highlighted their title credentials.
Sundowns maintain unstoppable form
Facing Kaizer Chiefs in one of the league’s most anticipated fixtures, Mamelodi Sundowns once again proved why they are the team to beat.
Lucas Ribeiro netted the decisive goal in the 41st minute, expertly converting a volley that left Chiefs goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune with no chance.
Chiefs, who were reduced to ten men early on after Thabo Cele received a yellow card, struggled to find an equaliser and rarely threatened the Sundowns defence.
Despite playing three matches in just eight days, Sundowns displayed remarkable endurance and tactical discipline.
The victory lifts them to 54 points, significantly extending their lead at the top of the table as they chase an eighth consecutive league title.
Orlando Pirates stunned by Marumo Gallants
Elsewhere, Orlando Pirates suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat against Marumo Gallants at the Free State Stadium.
The match began disastrously for Pirates, with Gabadinho Mhango firing Marumo Gallants ahead in the 15th minute.
Their struggles were compounded in the 74th minute when Thalente Mbatha inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, sealing a crucial victory for the hosts.
The loss is a significant setback for Orlando Pirates, who now find themselves falling further behind in the title race.
Their inability to respond to Marumo Gallants’ intensity raises concerns about their consistency heading into the latter stages of the season.
Elsewhere in the Premiership
SuperSport United endured a frustrating evening as they suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat against Magesi FC.
Meanwhile, TS Galaxy secured a comfortable 2-0 home victory over Golden Arrows, boosting their position in the mid-table standings.
Matchday 20 results:
- Stellenbosch FC 1-1 Polokwane City
- Magesi 1-0 Supersport United
- Mamelodi Sundowns 1-0 Kaizer Chiefs
- TS Galaxy 2-0 Golden Arrows
- Marumo Gallants 2-0 Orlando Pirates
Upcoming fixtures
Matchday 20 will conclude on Sunday with Cape Town City facing AmaZulu at 13:30 GMT.
However, the clash between Sekhukhune United and Royal AM has been postponed.
With another commanding performance, Mamelodi Sundowns continue to set the pace in the Premiership, leaving their challengers with little room for error as the season enters its decisive phase.
