Sundowns Crush Chiefs’ Hopes as Ribeiro’s Thunderbolt Seals Victory

Mamelodi Sundowns tightened their grip on the Betway Premiership title with a 1-0 victory over Kaizer Chiefs at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday.

A Game of Fine Margins

Chiefs started with intent, pressing high and creating early opportunities, but poor finishing let them down. Sundowns, patient in possession, found the breakthrough in the 41st minute when Iqraam Rayners set up Ribeiro, who expertly flicked the ball up before unleashing a stunning volley past Bruce Bvuma.

Chiefs Push, Sundowns Hold Firm

Chiefs dominated the first few exchanges in the second half, but they were unable to put Sundowns goalkeeper Jody February to the test. Bvuma made vital saves to keep Rayners and Teboho Mokoena out as the home team almost doubled their lead on the counter.

Despite late pressure from Amakhosi, Sundowns saw out the match with their trademark game management, securing their third win over Chiefs this season.

Coaches React

Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso praised his players' resilience. “We had to adjust tactically, but trust and courage won us the game. It was a fantastic team effort,” he said.

Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi felt hard done by, saying, “We didn’t deserve to lose. We created chances but couldn’t convert. At the very least, we deserved a point.”

League Standings

1. Mamelodi Sundowns – 54 Points (20 Games)
2. Orlando Pirates – 36 Points (15 Games)
3. Sekhukhune United – 31 Points (19 Games)
4. Polokwane City – 31 Points (20 Games)
5. Stellenbosch FC – 28 Points (18 Games)
6. SuperSport United – 27 Points (19 Games)
7. Cape Town City – 26 Points (19 Games)
8. Kaizer Chiefs – 25 Points (19 Games)