In what was a tense affair at the FNB Stadium, Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns cancelled each other out in a 0-0 stalemate in the Betway Premiership on Wednesday night.

Both Sundowns and Chiefs preserved their unbeaten status in the league after the draw, while the latter dropped points for the first time this season.

The Brazilians looked assured in possession early on, with Kaizer Chiefs sitting back and awaiting counter-attacking situations. Tashreeq Matthews conjured up the first real chance of the half in the ninth minute, after latching onto a looping pass by Arthur Sales before poking the ball over the crossbar.

Amakhosi presented Sundowns evident problems in transition, as the likes of Makabi Lilepo and Pule Mmodi lurked on misplaced passes. Despite their swift attacks, Chiefs were unable to make the most of their chances leading up to the 20th minute.

A knuckleball shot from range forced the best out of Ronwen Williams in the 37th minute. With Williams waving his finger, the 75 000 strong crowd at the Calabash were left stunned at the goalkeeper’s save.

Sundowns dominated the possession count for much of the first 45 but did little to trouble the Chiefs goalkeeper. As a result of Chiefs' stubborn backline, both Iqraam Rayners and Tashreeq Matthews attempted to open the scoring from range, however, their efforts were saved by Brandon Petersen.

It was much of the same for Miguel Cardoso’s team at the restart, as the Tshwane side probed in possession from their own quarters. As for Chiefs, the Glamours continued to search for moments on the break.

Chiefs looked likelier to open the scoring after the hour-mark and often had Sundowns back peddling in their own half. However, the Soweto giants fell short at the final hurdle.

Sundowns had little to show for their possession during the closing stages of the match, meanwhile, at the other end of the pitch, Chiefs did not shy away from hitting Williams from range as seen with attempts by Lilepo and Gaston Sirio.

Following a physically taxing end to the tie, the score eventually remained at 0-0 as the referee blew the final whistle.

Kaizer Chiefs 0

Mamelodi Sundowns 0

KAIZER CHIEFS: Peterson, Monyane, Miguel, Mako, Macheke, Mthethwa, Cele (Ndlovu 67’), Lilepo, Mmodi, Shabalala (Sirino 67’), Duba (Du Preez 60’)

MAMELODI SUNDOWNS: Williams, Basadien (Modiba 56’), Cupido, Khoza. Matthews (Mabena 71’), Allende, Mokoena (Aubaas 76’), Morena (Mdunyelwa 71’), Rayners (Mothiba 71’), Adams, Sales