Mamelodi Sundowns News Today: ‘They know how to win!’ Sales sends warning, Motsepe reveals he wasn’t ready, & more…

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Latest Mamelodi Sundowns news in the last 24 hours, including Tashreeq Matthews insisting Orlando Pirates know how to win MTN8, Arthur Sales determined to get position back, and more.

Mamelodi Sundowns news as they break

Pirates know how to win

Mamelodi Sundowns winger Tashreeq Matthews expects a tough battle in Saturday’s MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates.

Acknowledging that their opponents “know how to win this cup,” Matthews emphasised that Sundowns will give everything to secure a positive result.

Saleskeen on reclaiming his place!

Mamelodi Sundowns striker Arthur Sales has sent a strong message, vowing to reclaim his place in the team after returning from injury.

The Brazilian attacker made his first appearance in a competitive match this season with a cameo five-minute role during the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup against Al Ahli SC just before the international break. 

Sales returns to find winter signings Cassius Mailula and Siyanda Ndlovu having established themselves as reliable players in Cardoso’s side. But the Brazilian, who can play as a centre-forward or as a wideman, has vowed to muscle his way back into the team.

“I think it’s a problem for the coach [his return from injury], so I need to do my job. It’s also good for the coach: new players, new skills, different profiles,” Sales told the media.

Mamelodi Sundowns forward Arthur Sales celebrates.
Mamelodi Sundowns forward Arthur Sales celebrates. Image: Imago

“I think we need adaptation for the match. I need to, of course, fight every day at training also because I lost a little bit of my space because of my injury.

“I need to fight again, I think I have this one to do. I just need to show my football, show my talent at training and games, maybe he can use me.”

Return of Saleng, good for Downs?

Former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Brent Carelse has opened up on the return of winger Monnapule Saleng ahead of the MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates.

Saleng is yet to feature for Sundowns this season after a long period training away from the first team, following alleged disciplinary issues revealed by head coach Miguel Cardoso at the beginning of the season.

“That’s good for him personally and good for the team. I think he’s a player we need, he’s got a lot of creativity and the fans obviously like him, they obviously would like to see him playing,” Carelse told KickOff.

“So, hopefully he will get back into the squad and back into the field as quickly as possible. But we’re excited to see him come back again.”

Carelse also opened up on whether Saleng should feature in the final against his former club should he make the match-day squad on Saturday.

“Yes, why not? I think if he’s fit enough and he can do something for the team, yes definitely. I think players who play against their former clubs always have a point to prove or want to perform well, so it can be a good plus for Sundowns,” added the former SuperSport United midfielder.

Motsepe reveals being unsure of taking over at Sundowns

Mamelodi Sundowns chairman Thlopie Motsepe has admitted he was unsure if he was ready to take charge of the club when his father, Patrice Motsepe, entrusted him with the responsibility in 2021.

Motsepe was 32 at the time and had always known that one day he would succeed his father at Sundowns. However, taking over one of Africa’s biggest clubs was still a daunting responsibility.

“I’m so grateful that he entrusted me with the running of this organisation when he did, in 2021. I was 32 at the time, but at the time, I wasn’t sure if I was ready for this,” he said told the club’s media team.

Mamelodi Sundowns chairman Thlopi Motsepe.
Mamelodi Sundowns chairman Thlopi Motsepe.

“At the same time, I didn’t doubt myself. I just didn’t know if I was ready.”

Motsepe said he understood why his father wanted him to eventually take over, given their shared passion for football.

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Willis Sob

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Willis Sob is a sports betting expert and journalist covering Nigeria and South Africa, with 16 years of experience. With a background in journalism, reporting and programme production, he specialises in football odds, and his work has appeared on OK Africa and GOAL, as well as TV, radio and podcasts.