The Betway Premiership has an early three-way showdown at the summit, with South Africa’s Big Three – Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs – all sharing top spot.
Sundowns completed the trio after a commanding 2-0 victory over Marumo Gallants at Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday night.
The Brazilians moved on to seven points, level with Pirates and Chiefs after three matches, setting up an intriguing early battle for supremacy.
Sundowns controlled the contest from the opening whistle and took the lead in the 21st minute through Malibongwe Khoza, who finished from close range after Bathusi Aubaas headed a corner into the danger area.
Cassius Mailula then put the result beyond doubt in the 68th minute, continuing his impressive start to the campaign with a clinical left-footed strike from inside the box.
The result leaves the three giants sitting shoulder-to-shoulder at the top of the standings, with Sundowns, Pirates and Chiefs all on seven points.
While the season is still in its early stages, the sight of the country’s three heavyweight clubs occupying the summit is likely to fuel the rivalry between them.
For Gallants, the picture is far less encouraging. They remain winless after three matches and have dropped to 16th place.
Sundowns will now turn their attention to AmaZulu, whom they host on 26 August, while Pirates and Chiefs will look to maintain their grip on top spot when they return to action.
