Cele Plots Title Party Spoil

Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Thabo Cele has expressed confidence that his side can spoil Mamelodi Sundowns’ title celebrations when the two teams meet in a sold-out clash at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday.

This will be the second meeting between the sides this season, following a 1–1 draw earlier in the campaign at FNB Stadium.

Chiefs are eager to bounce back and avoid consecutive defeats after a recent 2–0 loss to Siwelele.

Meanwhile, Sundowns are aiming to secure their ninth consecutive league title, but Cele believes Chiefs have what it takes to stand in their way.

“If you look at recent history, the team has been dominant in terms of winning trophies, especially the league,” said Cele.

“They will want strong competition, particularly from our rivals, Orlando Pirates. Considering our recent progress, we are also improving step by step. It’s an exciting time for South African football. Of course, they will want to clinch the title again, but we can spoil the party because we are also on our own journey and have games we want to win.”

Cele added that he expects a patient approach from Sundowns, which he sees as one of their key strengths, but insists those are the kinds of matches he enjoys.

“I think they’re a good team to play against because they are very tactical and technical,” he said.

“Their style is patient — it becomes a mental battle, and I enjoy those games. They like to dominate possession, as that’s how they create chances and limit transitions.

“For us, playing away, we’ll look to exploit opportunities on the break. At the same time, when we have the ball, we also want to keep it, because that’s how they win games. If you can deny them possession, it becomes an advantage. It should be a very interesting match for us.”