Rayners: Joining Sundowns Was To Win Trophies
Mamelodi Sundowns attacker Iqraam Rayners affirmed that his move to the club was motivated by a desire to win trophies and compete in all available competitions.
Rayners, who joined the Tshwane giants from Stellenbosch FC at the beginning of the 2024/25 season, has proven to be a key player for the side. He has featured in 34 matches across all competitions, contributing significantly with eight assists and scoring an impressive 16 goals.
“I came to Sundowns to win trophies and to compete in every competition, and for a team like Sundowns, every season we need trophies, and going far as champions, so it’s a good opportunity for the team,” Rayners stated.
Rayners has the immediate prospect of winning his first title with Sundowns as they host Al Ahly in the first leg of the CAF Champions League semi-final at Loftus Stadium on Saturday [15:00].
Additionally, Sundowns currently lead the Betway Premiership table with 58 points after 23 matches, holding a three-game advantage over second-placed Orlando Pirates.
Coach Miguel Cardoso’s team will face the formidable Egyptian giants following their agonizing last-minute defeat to Kaizer Chiefs in the Nedbank Cup semi-final on Sunday.
Despite this setback, Rayners conveyed that morale within the Sundowns camp remains high. “The motivation is still the same, the mood is still good in camp, and for us as a team, we need to focus on like one game at a time, especially after what happened the past weekend,” he said.
“There’s always the opportunity to play another cup, another league match. Whatever happens, happens. It’s things we cannot control. But yeah, we’ll keep on pushing until the end.”
The former Stellenbosch FC striker, who experienced a prolific scoring run late last year and in early 2025, has recently encountered a dry spell in front of goal.
His last goals came on 22 February, when he scored twice against TS Galaxy. Rayners admitted to feeling occasional disappointment when he doesn’t score, but emphasized his satisfaction when the team secures a victory.
“Yeah, sometimes you feel disappointed if you don’t score, but sometimes it happens also, but at least the team is winning, and some other guys are scoring. I’m still happy because it’s helping the team to win games,” he added.
Article by Kamogelo Ndlovu
