Sundowns Aim For Treble After Reflecting On Near-Perfect Season
Mamelodi Sundowns chairman Tlhopie Motsepe reflected on the club’s remarkable season, highlighting their near-invincible run as they switch their focus on the upcoming Nedbank Cup final clash against Orlando Pirates.
While Sundowns secured a record-extending seventh consecutive DStv Premiership title and their 14th PSL era championship, a loss to Cape Town City in their final match shattered their dream of an unbeaten season. Despite the setback, the club celebrated their historic achievement widely.
In an interview on the club’s Pitchside Podcast, Motsepe expressed immense pride: “I’m overwhelmed to be very honest. The history of all the players, the coaches, and the people who have been part of us from trophy number one to trophy number 14, you feel honoured and privileged to be part of this history. You don’t get to number 14 without number one.”
He acknowledged the exceptional contributions of coach Rulani Mokwena and sporting director Flemming Berg:
“It’s important to give a lot of recognition to the coach, to Flemming Berg, our sporting director,” he said.
“He’s been amazing since he arrived. He’s brought talents like Marcelo Allende, Lucas Ribeiro, and that’s just in the first team. The team is in a position now that we can see there’s the ability to take it to the next level.”
Reflecting on the season’s challenges, Motsepe maintained a positive outlook: “We know we didn’t achieve that title of ‘The Invincibles’. Setbacks are all part of moving forward in life.
“I truly believe that what happened in the Champions League, being knocked out in the semifinal, and being knocked out of the MTN 8, gives us those moments of pain to push forward. We are in a position to do some special things.”
Motsepe expressed deep gratitude to the club’s unwavering fanbase: “The 14th title is dedicated to those before us, those with us, and those who have helped us achieve what we want to achieve,” he said.
“Seven in a row goes to the Yellow Nation, the supporters, the 12th man. Thank you very much for everything that you’ve done this season.”
Despite the season-ending hiccup, Sundowns have a chance to complete a historic treble with the Nedbank Cup final against Pirates looming. The match will be held at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday (15:00).
