Mkhulise calls on Sundowns to match Kaizer Chiefs’ fast start

Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Sphelele Mkhulise has warned his team-mates they must be ready for a demanding contest when they meet Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Saturday at 15:00.

The match brings together two of the early front-runners in the 2026/27 Betway Premiership, with Chiefs currently leading the table after winning their opening two league fixtures.

Sundowns also began the campaign with a victory, beating TS Galaxy in their opening match. However, Kaizer Chiefs have made the stronger start and will aim to preserve their perfect record in the first major contest between two clubs expected to compete for domestic honours this season.

Mkhulise said Sundowns would need to produce their best performance against a Chiefs side that has quickly adapted to life under manager Fernando Da Cruz.

“Obviously, we are playing a big game, and we are ready as Mamelodi Sundowns to do our best, and our supporters must expect us to give our all on the field of play,” said Mkhulise.

The midfielder recognised the significance of Chiefs’ results but said Sundowns would concentrate on their own approach rather than becoming distracted by their opponents’ position in the standings.

“It’s going to be a very difficult game because they [Chiefs] are doing well at the moment in the league.

“They have won their last two games in the league, and they are number one, I think.

“So, it will be a very difficult game,” he added.

Although the campaign is still at an early stage, Saturday’s fixture carries considerable importance for both sides.

Kaizer Chiefs will be seeking a third successive league victory to remain at the top of the Betway Premiership, while Sundowns will attempt to build on their opening-day success and prevent their rivals from gaining further momentum.

The challenge for Mkhulise and his team-mates will be to respond to Chiefs’ intensity while also imposing Sundowns’ own style on the game. The Brazilians will have to manage the pressure of facing a side that has started with confidence and established an early advantage in the table.

For Chiefs, the meeting provides an opportunity to underline the strength of their start under Da Cruz. For Sundowns, it is an immediate chance to show that their opening victory over TS Galaxy can develop into a strong challenge for the title.

With both clubs widely expected to be among the leading contenders for the Betway Premiership, the contest could offer an early indication of their respective progress. Chiefs arrive with two wins from two matches, while Sundowns will look to use the meeting at FNB Stadium to close the gap and make their own statement at the beginning of the season.