Kaizer Chiefs continue unbeaten start with draw against Mamelodi Sundowns

With over 75,000 fans creating a vibrant atmosphere inside the Calabash, both sides battled intensely in what was a tactical and physical showdown. Chiefs, under returning head coach Nasreddine Nabi, came into the match with a clear high-pressing game plan, aimed at disrupting Sundowns' build-up play. The approach paid dividends early on as the visitors struggled to find rhythm, with neither side creating clear-cut chances in the first half.

Chiefs, who made several changes to their starting XI - bringing in Paseka Mako, Zitha Kwinika, and Pule Mmodi - were solid defensively and cohesive in their pressing. Meanwhile, Sundowns introduced Thapelo Morena, Malibongwe Khoza and Fawaaz Basadien to freshen up their line-up.

The best opportunities in the opening 45 minutes came from long-range efforts. Glody Lilepo tested Ronwen Williams with a powerful shot in the 37th minute, while Brandon Petersen was equally alert two minutes later to deny a strike from Teboho Mokoena.

Sundowns looked livelier after the break and nearly broke the deadlock through Arthur Sales in the 58th minute, but his curling shot drifted just wide of goal. Chiefs responded with substitutions aimed at injecting pace and energy, bringing on Ashley Du Preez, Gaston Sirino and Siphesihle Ndlovu. Sundowns also made attacking changes, introducing Lebo Mothiba, Zuko Mdunyelwa, and Siyabonga Mabena.

Despite the changes, the deadlock remained. Both sides traded half-chances, but solid defending and alert goalkeeping kept the scoreline unchanged. Chiefs had the final push in stoppage time, with Sibongiseni Mthethwa unleashing a powerful drive from distance, only to be denied once again by Williams.

The result sees Chiefs remain unbeaten after four matches, with 10 points and level at the top with Sekhukhune United, who drew 1-1 with AmaZulu. Sundowns, with eight points, sit two points adrift.

While the match ended goalless, it showcased Chiefs' growing resilience and tactical maturity under Nabi, who missed the first three games of the season due to a family emergency. With their Nedbank Cup triumph last season ending a long trophy drought, Amakhosi appear to be on an upward trajectory.