Mamelodi Sundowns’ midfielder Neo Maema is preparing for an emotional return to Bloemfontein as they face Marumo Gallants in the Carling Knockout Cup semi-final this Sunday. 

For Maema, the clash is more than just another game – it’s an opportunity to perform in front of family, friends, and the loyal supporters who helped shape his career.

“It will be an honor to go home. This will be our second time since I’ve been here because I think we played last 16 against Marumo the first time I went,” said Maema. 

“It’s always a great feeling to go back home where it started, standing in front of your supporters who have been supporting you from the start of your career.”

Maema began his football journey in Bloemfontein, rising through the ranks on the reserve side of the now-defunct Bloemfontein Celtic. After the team’s sale to Royal AM in 2021, Maema joined Sundowns, where he has grown into an amazing talent. Yet, his roots remain firmly planted in Bloemfontein’s passionate football culture, which he credits for his professional and personal development.

“It’s an environment that everybody needs to grow out of. It’s somewhere that is good for a player to start because the supporters are very enthusiastic about football, very passionate, they look after their players, they support them,” he shared. 

“So, it’s not a regret to where I am and the man that I am today, mainly because of the principles that they’ve shown me and taught me.”

For Maema, Sunday’s match is more than just a semi-final; it’s a chance to give back to the community that laid the foundation for his career. 

“It will be great to go home also to see my family and make sure that the supporters who have been supporting me from day one, give them an unforgettable experience and a performance that they will cherish when I get a chance to play.”

As Gallants have been embraced by Bloemfontein fans in Celtic’s absence, this encounter holds special meaning for both sides. Gallants enter the match brimming with confidence after a stunning quarter-final upset over defending champions Stellenbosch FC. Their loyal supporters, especially those still longing for the days of Bloemfontein Celtic, will hope to see Gallants continue their improbable Cup journey.

Yet, Sundowns remain a formidable force, having already dealt Gallants a heavy 4-1 defeat in the Betway Premiership this season. And after securing a comfortable 2-0 win over Polokwane City on Wednesday, where Maema made just his second appearance of the season, the Brazilians have every reason to be confident heading into this showdown.

Maema’s homecoming to Bloemfontein and the city’s adopted affection for Gallants add rich layers of sentiment and passion to this Cup semi-final. As Maema steps onto familiar turf, he will carry the hopes of Bloemfontein fans in his heart, hoping to deliver a performance that pays tribute to his roots and inspires those who have supported him from the beginning. Additionally, if Sundowns win, the final will also be played in Bloemfontein’s Toyota Stadium on 23 November.