Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns drew 1-1 at FNB Stadium on Saturday, with the result highlighting concerns over both sides’ performances and ambitions for the season.
Amakhosi took the lead in the second half through Langelihle Phili, but their advantage lasted fewer than 10 minutes before Cassius Mailula equalised for Sundowns.
The visitors had more of the ball during a cautious first half, although they struggled to turn their possession into clear chances. Chiefs remained compact for long periods and appeared content to absorb pressure while waiting for opportunities on the break.
The match became more open after half-time. Chiefs eventually found a way through the Sundowns defence, but their goal prompted a stronger response from the visitors. Sundowns pushed forward in search of an equaliser and eventually found one.
Chiefs faced further pressure in the closing stages, but their defence did enough to hold on for a point.
Modiba unable to influence the game
Aubrey Modiba endured a difficult afternoon as Thabiso Monyane restricted his opportunities to contribute from the left.
The Chiefs defender also worked effectively to reduce the influence of Tashreeq Matthews, leaving Modiba with limited space to attack. His defensive display was uneven at times, while the forward threat normally associated with his game was largely missing.
Modiba also struggled to make his long-range distribution count, particularly when trying to pick out Brayan Leon. For a player expected to provide width and attacking quality, it was another disappointing outing.
Questions remain over Williams
Ronwen Williams is yet to consistently deliver the match-winning displays expected from a goalkeeper of his standing.
Too many efforts on target appear to be beating him, while his positioning and authority inside the penalty area have also attracted scrutiny. Sundowns have conceded five goals in their first three league matches, increasing the questions surrounding the Bafana Bafana captain.
Williams remains one of South Africa’s most experienced goalkeepers. However, Sundowns will need him to perform at his highest level if they are to compete for major honours this season.
Is Chiefs’ approach too cautious?
The match reinforced a growing impression that Chiefs are prepared to settle for draws against Sundowns and Orlando Pirates.
Their tactics against Sundowns suggested avoiding defeat was a greater priority than taking the game to the visitors. Amakhosi selected three defensively minded players and spent long periods sitting deep, despite playing in front of their home support.
A superb goal put Chiefs ahead, but, for the second time against Sundowns, they could not protect their lead. After the equaliser, they appeared satisfied with securing a point.
If Amakhosi are serious about challenging for the league title, they cannot regard draws against their biggest rivals as acceptable outcomes every time. They will eventually have to show enough ambition to beat the teams competing for the same prize.
Defensive concerns remain
Although Chiefs restricted Sundowns to one goal, their defensive display exposed several weaknesses.
Thabo Moloisane was making his first appearance and understandably appeared short of match rhythm in some situations. His partnership with Miguel Inacio was not always convincing, while Zitha Kwinika looked unsettled at certain moments.
Sibongiseni Mthethwa and Siphesihle Ndlovu provided more disciplined performances, helping to limit the damage as Sundowns pressed for a winning goal.
Chiefs will require greater defensive stability if they are to maintain a serious title challenge.
Sundowns still searching for their best balance
Sundowns’ off-season changes appear to have disrupted the rhythm that has previously made them so effective.
Several players who were not regular starters last season are now being asked to take on greater responsibility. Sphelele Mkhulise and Keagan Johannes have both struggled to reproduce their best form so far.
Sundowns have also had to cope with the absences of Teboho Mokoena, Khuluman Ndamane, Iqraam Rayners and Nuno Santos, leaving gaps the club are still attempting to fill.
Miguel Cardoso has an enviable squad at his disposal, but identifying the right combinations and restoring the fluency that has characterised Sundowns in recent years will take time.
The draw at FNB Stadium showed that the champions remain a dangerous team, but there are still several areas for Cardoso to address. Chiefs might have beaten Sundowns had they committed more fully to attacking the visitors.
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