Mamelodi Sundowns rescued by Antonio van Wyk in late draw at Chippa United

Mamelodi Sundowns avoided their first Betway Premiership defeat of the season when Antonio van Wyk scored with the final kick of the match to secure a 1-1 draw against Chippa United.

Chippa had looked set to claim a historic victory in front of a sold-out crowd at Buffalo City Stadium, with the match played in rainy conditions on a heavy pitch.

The home side’s disciplined defensive display, led by goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, frustrated the African champions for long periods. Sundowns controlled much of the game but were unable to convert several opportunities and will regret failing to make their dominance count.

Chippa created problems of their own on the counter-attack, catching Sundowns off guard on a number of occasions, although they could not seriously test Ronwen Williams.

The poor playing surface made it difficult for both teams to impose their usual style during a first half that produced few clear chances. Sundowns came close to conceding in the 32nd minute when Williams slipped while collecting a back pass. The goalkeeper recovered quickly enough to clear the ball before an advancing Chippa forward could reach it.

Chippa missed the clearest opportunity of the match after 69 minutes. Figuraeido was released on a counter-attack but, just as he prepared to shoot, his effort was deflected by Thapelo Morena.

Sundowns responded six minutes later when Grant Kekana met an excellent cross from Aubrey Modiba with a header on target. Nwabali dealt with the attempt comfortably.

The breakthrough arrived in the 78th minute, when substitute Sirgio Kammies scored just a minute after coming on. Khaya Mfecane supplied the pass for Kammies, who gave Chippa the lead.

Sundowns immediately increased the pressure in search of an equaliser. Cassius Mailula’s cross was cleared in the final minute before the onrushing Iqraam Rayners could connect with it, while Nwabali also denied Teboho Mokoena with a save from a header.

However, the visitors continued to press until the very end and were rewarded in the 95th minute. Van Wyk found the net with the last kick of the game, rescuing a point for Sundowns.

The late goal also denied Chippa what would have been their first-ever victory over Masandawana in the Betway Premiership.