Peter Shalulile explains how Sundowns plan to overcome Club World Cup stage fright

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Mamelodi Sundowns forward Peter Shalulile believes the PSL champions can work their way into the hearts of supporters through impressive performances at the FIFA Club World Cup.

Sundowns will kick off their Club World Cup campaign on Wednesday morning when they take on Ulsan from South Korea with Borussia Dortmund and Fluminense also in their group.

It will be a major test for the PSL champions and Shalulile admits they will feel some fear but can overcome all those nervous moments by putting in good displays which will get fans on their side.  

How do Sundowns plan to conquer Club World Cup?

“You are going to see one of the best players also, best teams where you can also see how good you are football wise but we are excited and ready,” Shalulile told SABC.

“I think it is a massive feeling because you do not want to disappoint at this level. Thousands of people are going to be there.

“I know we will have butterflies but they will eventually go away. We are expecting a full pitch from day one up to the last which is a nice encouragement because the nice thing about fans is that you can steal their heart when you are doing good,” he added.

PSL champions will be keen to start positively

Iqraam Rayners and Peter Shalulile Mamelodi Sundowns
Image – Mamelodi Sundowns

“Just a massive experience when you know you are with them. They will push you and make sure you are on your A-Game and encourage you.”

Shalulile is among the experienced heads within the Sundowns squad who will be relied upon to provide leadership on and off the pitch at the tournament.

Sundowns will kick off their Club World Cup campaign at 2am on Wednesday against Ulsan, a game that will give them an indication of what to expect from the tournament. 

<!-- Author Start -->Joel Oliver<!-- Author End -->

Joel Oliver

Author

Joel Oliver is a seasoned multimedia sports journalist with a rich background in covering diverse football stories and events in South Africa and beyond.
His extensive coverage spans subjects touching on the PSL, with a focus on the Big Three (Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs & Mamelodi Sundowns), Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana.