Sundowns Beat Chiefs In Controversial Circumstance

Mamelodi Sundowns weathered a late surge from Kaizer Chiefs to secure a 2-1 victory at FNB Stadium on Saturday. The match was marred by controversy, particularly surrounding Sundowns’ second goal.

Sundowns also owed a debt of gratitude to their captain, Ronwenn Williams, who made three crucial saves in the second half, twice denying Edson Castillo and Ashley Du Preez.

A crowd of 83,381 witnessed the clash between two undefeated teams in the league. The match was delayed by 30 minutes due to heavy traffic and long queues outside the stadium.

Chiefs made a strong start, with Ranga Chivaviro scoring in the ninth minute after a well-timed pass from Reeve Frosler. However, Sundowns dominated possession and had several opportunities to equalize, with Iqraam Rayners missing a good chance.

Sundowns eventually found their rhythm, with Lucas Ribeiro Costa scoring the equalizer in the 31st minute. Costa added another powerful shot that was saved by Chiefs goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari.

Just six minutes later, Sundowns took the lead through Rayners, who finished off a cross from Costa. However, there were doubts about whether Costa was offside, leading to protests from the Chiefs bench. Referee Skhumbuzo Gasa ordered Chiefs to put away their iPad, which they were using to review incidents.

Gasa felt Chiefs were using the iPad inappropriately, claiming that it was interfering with his decision-making. Chiefs believed that the referee was making incorrect calls, particularly regarding Rayners’ goal.

Although Chiefs had won their opening two matches, they faced a formidable opponent in Sundowns, who were tactically disciplined.

In the second half, Chivaviro had a chance to equalize but missed the target. Gaston Sirino also delivered a dangerous free kick that Castillo headed toward the goal, but Williams made a good save.

Chiefs substitute Du Preez had a one-on-one with Williams, but the Bafana Bafana captain came out on top. The follow-up shot by Chivaviro was blocked by Lebusa.

As Chiefs pushed forward, Williams made another excellent save to deny Castillo in the 83rd minute. Castillo believed he had scored the equalizer, but a foul by Inacio Miguel on Lebusa prevented the goal from standing. Sundowns held on to win their third game of the season, but the match was marred by fans throwing bottles onto the pitch towards the referees.