Kaizer Chiefs’ new coach, Nasreddine Nabi, faced his first setback on Saturday afternoon as Mamelodi Sundowns handed him a 2-1 defeat in their Betway Premiership clash at FNB Stadium.
The match started on a high note for the Soweto giants, with Ranga Chivaviro breaking the deadlock just nine minutes in. Chivaviro, who also scored in Chiefs’ midweek 3-1 victory over AmaZulu FC, seemed to set the tone for another win.
However, Sundowns, known as Bafana Ba Style, quickly bounced back. Lucas Ribeiro, in top form, equalized in the 31st minute. The momentum shifted, and by the 37th minute, Iqraam Rayners had put Sundowns ahead.
Despite their strong start to the season, Chiefs couldn’t secure their third consecutive win under Nabi’s leadership. The Glamour Boys had entered the match with confidence, having won their first two league games of the campaign—a feat they have achieved more times than any other team in PSL history.
This clash was particularly notable as it was the first time both Sundowns and Chiefs had won their opening two league matches in the same PSL season. The defeat serves as a reminder of the challenges ahead for Nabi and his squad.