Mamelodi Sundowns Aim to Keep Title Race in Their Own Hands Ahead of Kaizer Chiefs Clash
Ahead of a pivotal midweek encounter with third‑placed Kaizer Chiefs at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso stressed that his side cannot afford to drop any points if they hope to secure a ninth consecutive Premiership title.
Current League Standing
With three matches remaining, Sundowns occupy the top spot on the table, five points ahead of nearest challengers Orlando Pirates. The Brazilians have played one game more than Pirates, yet their lead remains intact thanks to a consistent run of victories in recent weeks.
According to the latest Premier Soccer League (PSL) standings, Sundowns have accumulated 66 points from 30 matches, while Pirates sit on 61 points from 29 games PSL Official Site, 26 Sept 2025. A win against Chiefs would push Sundowns to 69 points, effectively putting the title outcome within their own control.
Cardoso’s Message to the Squad
Speaking at the pre‑match press conference, Cardoso highlighted the importance of maintaining focus and intensity:
“We have to get all the points we have left. It’s a story that still needs to be written and we have to do it if we want to be successful. Then we won’t be dependent on others and we shouldn’t do that.”
— Miguel Cardoso, Head Coach, Mamelodi Sundowns
The Portuguese tactician added that the team must approach each remaining fixture with the same high level that has characterised their season:
“We are in a moment where all the games are at a high level. This is a big challenge that lies ahead of us.”
Chiefs’ Situation and Sundowns’ Preparation
Kaizer Chiefs come into the fixture fresh, having not played since their 2‑0 defeat to Siwelele last week. Cardoso acknowledged the potential advantage this could give the Amakhosi, but expressed confidence in his squad’s readiness:
- Chiefs have had extended rest, likely arriving with full energy.
- Sundowns have played two matches in a row – a 3‑0 win over Polokwane City at Loftus Versfeld and a 1‑0 victory at Seshego Stadium.
- Recovery and preparation over the next two days will be crucial, according to Cardoso.
The coach emphasized that the short turnaround does not diminish the team’s resolve:
“We don’t have much time. We have two days and then we’ll play again. As you can imagine, the recovery process is the most important thing for us.”
Looking Ahead
Sundowns will seek to build on the momentum generated by their back‑to‑back wins over Polokwane City. A victory against Chiefs would not only extend their lead but also reduce the reliance on results elsewhere, aligning with Cardoso’s insistence on controlling their own destiny.
As the PSL season enters its final stretch, the clash at Loftus Versfeld promises to be a decisive test of both teams’ resolve and Sundowns’ pursuit of a historic ninth straight league title.
