Modiba Targets MTN8 Glory As Sundowns Aim To End Four-Year Trophy Drought

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Aubrey Modiba says the club are determined to end their four-year wait for MTN8 success when they take on Polokwane City on Saturday.

Sundowns begin their latest MTN8 campaign against Rise and Shine at Lucas Moripe Stadium, knowing the pressure to reclaim the domestic cup has grown after four consecutive seasons without lifting the trophy.

The Brazilians have struggled to stamp their authority on the competition in recent years, while Orlando Pirates have won the MTN8 in each of the past four seasons. Sundowns’ last triumph came in 2021, when they defeated Cape Town City on penalties under then co-coaches Manqoba Mngqithi and Rulani Mokwena.

Modiba admitted the squad is fully aware of the expectations that come with representing Sundowns, where winning trophies is considered the minimum requirement.

“Yeah, we are aware of that, not winning competitions, especially local competitions,” he said.

“We do have those conversations. We know that when you sign for Sundowns, you’re expected to win every game, even a friendly.

“So we know very well the supporters want more. They always want more. And as players, we want more. Everyone at Sundowns wants more.

“So we are aware, and hopefully we can set the tone this season with the MTN8. We know it’s not going to be easy. Pirates have won it four times in a row.

“So it shows they really take it seriously. They push hard, and for us it’s about matching that and making sure we try to win it. But first, we have to overcome Polokwane City.”

The need for a strong start comes after a disappointing domestic cup campaign last season. Despite another successful year on the continent, Sundowns failed to win any of South Africa’s domestic cup competitions.

Their campaign was ultimately salvaged by CAF Champions League success, but missing out on domestic cup silverware has provided added motivation heading into the new season.

The 31-year-old also reflected on the difficult pre-season the club endured following the passing of teammate Jayden Adams, admitting the tragedy took a significant emotional toll on the squad as they prepared for the new campaign.

Modiba said Adams’ death resonated far beyond the club, highlighting how the football community and the country united to celebrate his life.

“It has been very challenging, like you said,” he added.

“It hasn’t been easy on everyone. Not only the team, but the country and even the world, seeing the way they celebrated his life.

“But we had to do what we had to do. Even though it was difficult, you could see some of the guys at training were mentally not there.

“The coach understood that, and some players were taken out of training at times so they could deal with it.”

With the emotional challenges of pre-season behind them, Sundowns now shift their focus to competitive action, hoping to make an early statement in the MTN8 and begin their pursuit of domestic silverware on a winning note.