Grant Kekana tells his Mamelodi Sundowns teammates to man up after AS Maniema Union disappointment - 'We can't cry over spilled milk, we just need to rectify where we need to'

Mamelodi Sundowns are navigating a challenging period, following losses in two cup finals—the Home of Legends Cup against Kaizer Chiefs and the Carling Knockout against Magesi FC.

They also drew their opening Caf Champions League group stage match against AS Maniema at home.

Defender Grant Kekana expressed the team's determination to regroup and return to winning ways as they prepare to face Sekhukhune United, who are also eager for redemption after their own PSL defeat.

“It has been a tough week, with disappointment from the cup final and not getting victory at home in our first Champions League game [in the group phase]. We are trying to pick each other up. We know it is still a long season ahead,” Kekana told the club media department.

“We can't cry over spilled milk, we just need to rectify where we need to and make sure we start winning games again. We are trying to hold each other accountable, to start getting positive results. I think we have all been doing a lot of introspection and we are happy that as players we were able to hold each other accountable.

“When teams come to play against us they are fired up. We know that they lost their last game against TS Galaxy but they have a good squad, good players as well and a good coach [Lehlohonolo Seema],” he said.

“So, it's going to be another tough game. We are going through a tough patch right now and it happens. It is not every day that things go your way."

Grant Kekana aims to rebuild his form at club level to earn a recall to the Bafana Bafana squad, having been excluded from recent AFCON qualifiers against Uganda and South Sudan.

His focus is on consistently performing well for Sundowns, with hopes of impressing the national team selectors.

As a key player for his club, Kekana believes that a strong showing in the league will help secure his spot back in the national setup.

He faces fierce competition from fellow defenders like Malibongwe Khoza and Rushine De Reuck for a starting role. As a regular for Sundowns, Kekana knows he must continue delivering top performances to stand out.

Sundowns will face Babina Noko in a crucial league encounter. They hope to secure a victory to close the gap on rivals Orlando Pirates.

The team is focused on using this match as a springboard to regain momentum.