Wasteful Kaizer Chiefs held again as TS Galaxy force stalemate in Mbombela

The stalemate marked Amakhosi's second successive 0-0 result, following their midweek draw with Chippa United at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. The dropped points dealt another blow to their title ambitions, leaving them on 24 points from 13 matches - four behind league leaders Orlando Pirates.

Galaxy, meanwhile, will close out the year in eighth place with 21 points from 14 outings.

Chiefs began the brighter of the two sides, with Mduduzi Shabalala handed a golden early opportunity after racing onto a ball over the top, only to lob his effort wide. The Rockets were caught out midway through the half when Flávio da Silva tucked away a well-worked move, but his finish was ruled offside.

As halftime approached, the pressure intensified. Galaxy goalkeeper Ira Tape produced a superb point-blank save to deny Khanyisa Mayo, ensuring the match remained goalless at the break despite Chiefs' dominance.

The hosts showed more intent in the second half as they pushed forward in search of the opener, but the Amakhosi defence dealt comfortably with their advances.

Chiefs continued to carve out chances of their own. Substitute Asanele Velebayi made an immediate impact, picking out Silva with a sharp pass, but the striker dragged his effort inches wide. Inciano Miguel sent a header over the bar, while Godly Lilepo squandered a clear scoring opportunity from close range after the 80th minute.

Galaxy threatened late on through Junior Zindonga, but the Chiefs backline stood firm. The Rockets were reduced to ten men in stoppage time when substitute Nhlanhla Mgaga was sent off for dangerous play.

Teenage sensation Luke Baartman was also handed his senior debut for Chiefs, but despite the promising youngster's introduction, Amakhosi could not find the decisive breakthrough as the match finished 0-0.

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