Super Sub Mailula saves Downs from defeat to Chiefs
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Super Sub Mailula saves Downs from defeat to Chiefs
Aug 15, 2026 – 01:37 pm
By Kickoff Reporter
Mamelodi Sundowns battled from behind to secure a 1-1 draw against Betway Premiership leaders Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday afternoon.
Fixture: Kaizer Chiefs v Mamelodi SundownsScore: 1-1Goalscorers: Philli (63′) / Mailula (75′)
The stage was set early in the campaign for the Amakhosi and Masandawana, with the hosts riding the crest of the wave at the top of the table and the African champions right in the swing of things following a delayed start to the season.
Chiefs showed intend to grab hold of the contest when Langelihle Phili made a forward run into a promising position to provide a chance, but the final delivery from the Stellenbosch FC lacked effect.
Miguel Cardoso’s men launched a response closer to the half-hour mark following a penetrating passing move around the area led to a rasping shot at goal for Bathusi Aubaas, but the effort flew over the top.
The Amakhosi regained momentum a minute before halftime and provided the best chance of the half through a header on the far side by Inacio Miguel from a free-kick by Lebohang Maboe, but it was safely collected by Ronwen Williams.
Chiefs continued to go on the front-foot ten minutes into the second half and came close again after a long pass to the right by Phili released Thabiso Monyane, who misjudged the flight of the ball leaving Williams to smother.
The Brazilians remained on the ropes midway in the second stanza and fell behind on 63 minutes when forceful play by Siphesihle Ndlovu ended with a neat pass to Phili, who fired into the back of the net to open his account for the club.
Phili was then sacrificed alongside Luke Baartman as coach Fernando Da Cruz look to consolidate the lead and made a double substitution by bringing on Ethan Chislett and Wandile Duba.
Masandawana gained momentum inside the final 15 minutes and were back on level terms when substitute Cassius Mailula beat Brandon Petersen to a high ball in the area and headed in with his first touch of the game.
The African champions were buoyed by the equaliser and enjoyed the lion share of late chances with the Amakhosi pinned back, but no victor emerged as it remained 1-1, with the Amakhosi remaining top of the table.