Mkhulise targets top spot as Sundowns prepare for Chiefs test

Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Sphelele Mkhulise says his side are determined to defeat Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday and replace them at the top of the Betway Premiership table.

Kaizer Chiefs have won their opening two matches and currently lead the standings on six points. They will look to preserve that perfect start when they host Mamelodi Sundowns at FNB Stadium at 15:00 on Saturday.

The fixture will be Sundowns’ second league match of the campaign, giving them an early opportunity to move above the leaders with a victory. Mkhulise said the champions understand the scale of the challenge, particularly with Chiefs enjoying home advantage and the confidence that comes from beginning the season with two wins.

Mkhulise scored twice in Sundowns’ midweek victory over TS Galaxy, but he insists the focus is now firmly on the meeting with Kaizer Chiefs.

“It’s a big game and Chiefs are doing well in the league having won their first two games,” Mkhulise told Sundowns media department.

“So, it’s a big one, they’re playing home and are motivated. But also, as Mamelodi Sundowns we’re ready for this big game.

“We want to make our supporters and three points to go on top of the table.

“We will give our all and we promise our supporters we won’t disappoint them as our 12th man; we need them behind us on the day.”

The match brings together two sides occupying the early leading positions in the Betway Premiership, with Kaizer Chiefs having established the initial advantage through their unbeaten start and Mamelodi Sundowns preparing to play only their second league fixture.

For Sundowns, the contest offers the chance to turn their midweek momentum into an important league result. Mkhulise’s two goals against TS Galaxy have added to the build-up around the midfielder, although he has emphasised the importance of a collective effort against a Chiefs team that has made an ideal start.

Kaizer Chiefs will be aiming to make their home advantage count at FNB Stadium and extend their winning run to three matches. Sundowns, meanwhile, need victory to move to six points and go to the top of the table.

Mkhulise has called on the Sundowns supporters to play their part from the stands, describing them as the team’s “12th man”. He says the squad will give everything in an attempt to reward them with a result against their rivals.

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