Chiefs dent Sundowns’ title hopes as Pirates take seven-point lead

Champions Kaizer Chiefs secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Mamelodi Sundowns in the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) on Sunday, but still trail league leaders Orlando Pirates by a significant margin.

Chiefs started brightly and took the lead within the first 15 minutes. Neo Bohloko delivered a precise pass that split the Sundowns defence, allowing Naledi Hlongwane to race into the box and calmly finish past the goalkeeper.

Kaizer Chiefs vs Mamelodi Sundowns in the DStv Diski Challenge. Photo – Asidilali

The attacking duo of Hlongwane and Bohloko continued to trouble the Sundowns backline, nearly doubling the lead shortly after.

However, Sundowns’ defence held firm and created their own clear-cut chance in the 25th minute, only for Chiefs’ goalkeeper Takalani Mazhamba to deny Bennet Makoena in a one-on-one situation.

Kaizer Chiefs celebrate a win in the DStv Diski Challenge. Photo – Asidilali

Chiefs win aids Pirates’ cause

Amakhosi went into halftime with a 1-0 lead after controlling the opening 45 minutes. Sundowns emerged for the second half with renewed purpose, but Mazhamba once again proved decisive, making a crucial save 10 minutes after the restart. Despite sustained pressure from Sundowns, including a penalty appeal that was waved away, Chiefs sealed the victory in the 87th minute.

Kamogelo Malefo capitalised on a defensive error, winning the ball at the halfway line and catching goalkeeper Nqobani Biyela off his line, before applying a composed finish to make it 2-0.

Orlando Pirates celebrate a win in the DStv Diski Challenge. Photo Asidilali

The win lifts Chiefs to 26 points, though they remain in fifth place. Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates extended their lead at the top of the table to seven points over second-placed Sundowns following their own 2-0 win against Marumo Gallants on Saturday.

Pirates are on 37 points following their four-game winning run, seven ahead of Sundowns, who have now drawn and lost their last two, with Siwelele FC in third with 29 points after beating Durban City 4-2 on Sunday.