By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Premier Soccer League (PSL) log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns were held to a 1-1 draw by Kaizer Chiefs at Loftus Versfeld stadium in Tshwane on Wednesday evening.
Now left with two games before they conclude their league campaign, Sundowns has three points more than second-placed Orlando Pirates, who have played a game less. That sets up this title brawl into an intriguing contest which could be decided on the final day, with Pirates now enjoying a goal difference over the Brazilians.
The Brazilians were forced into an early change after Keanu Cupido was stretchered off following a collision with Siphesihle Ndlovu, who saw yellow for the challenge.
In the 25th minute, Amakhosi drew first blood through Flavio da Silva, with Mduduzi Shabalala teeing him up, as Ronwen Williams failed to keep the effort out after a save that lacked conviction.
Just before the break, Shabalala was also forced off on a stretcher following an incident involving Jayden Adams, with Gaston Sirino coming on in his place.
Brayan Leon restored parity for the Chloorkop outfit in the 54th minute, but the drama was far from over. Adams was shown a second yellow card, his first stemming from the earlier Shabalala incident, as he was sent off reducing Sundowns to 10 men.
Sundowns almost went ahead deep into stoppage time, but Brendan Petersen pulled a spectacular save that could have strengthened his 2026 FIFA World Cup bid and the points were ultimately shared.
Meanwhile in an afternoon clash at the Buffalo City Stadium, as Sekhukhune United defeated host Chippa United 3-1 in a rescheduled match (postponed from Tuesday due to a waterlogged pitch) thanks to first-half strikes from Tshepo Mashiloane, Olerato Mandi and Bright Ndlovu.
That result saw Babina Noko claim fourth place from AmaZulu FC on goal difference, but Usuthu reclaimed the position in the evening with a 1-1 draw against derby rivals Golden Arrows at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Elsewhere Orbit College rise off the foot of the table with a 2-1 away win over Magesi FC at the Seshego Stadium – courtesy of first-half strikes from Lucky Malatsi and Gomolemo Khoto – while Siwelele FC and new Nedbank Cup champions Durban City shared a 2-2 thriller at the Dr Molemela Stadium.
Premier Soccer League (PSL) Results, Wednesday 6 May
Chippa United 1-3 Sekhukhune United
Mamelodi Sundowns 1-1 Kaizer Chiefs
AmaZulu FC 1-1 Golden Arrows
Marumo Gallants 1-1 TS Galaxy
Richards Bay 0-0 Polokwane City.