Mamelodi Sundowns & Bafana Bafana star Modiba excited by upcoming assignments with Brazilians & national team - 'We play football to play in these kinds of tournaments'

This year's football calendar is packed for both club and country. Players face a relentless schedule that includes the Caf Champions League, domestic league matches, the Nedbank Cup, FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the FIFA Club World Cup, the start of the 2025-26 season, and Afcon in December.

With such a demanding fixture list, fatigue could be a major concern, but Aubrey Modiba is embracing the challenge.

Speaking to SABC Sport, the versatile player expressed his excitement about competing at the highest level for both club and country.

He sees these tournaments as an opportunity to showcase his talent on the global stage.

Rather than worrying about the workload, he is focused on performing at his best and making the most of every opportunity.

"I think there's excitement all around because we play football to play in these kinds of tournaments, and even having qualified is also something that hasn't been happening, especially with Bafana Bafana," said Modiba as reported by SABC Sports.

"So right now I'm happy that we have qualified for this major tournament [AFCON], and we're obviously to play in the Club World Cup with [Sundowns] as well, so it's a great experience and we're looking forward to all these tournaments."

"The good thing is that the coach tries to explain to us the load and matches that are coming because they are coming thick and fast, so for us, it's to take it to our head that he will tell us we will play this game, and that game you will rest," he added.

"So, as a player, we try and understand where he's coming from because, at the end of the day, he doesn't want us to break down before the season ends, so we understand what he wants from us, and it's for us it's to adjust and understand what the coach is doing."

Competing against top national teams and elite clubs in the Club World Cup provides players with valuable exposure and the chance to prove themselves on the international stage.

These high-profile tournaments also offer opportunities for overseas scouts to take notice of South African talent.

At 29, Modiba could be eyeing a potential move abroad, and strong performances in the USA and Morocco could open doors for him.

Playing at this level also raises the overall standard of South African football, benefiting both club and country.

With more players gaining international experience, the national team could see long-term improvements.

Bafana Bafana will take on Benin and Lesotho in March as part of their FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

These matches are crucial, as South Africa currently sits in second place with seven points.

Winning both games would put them in a strong position to qualify for the World Cup.

The team will need to be at its best, given the competitive nature of the qualification process.

Every point matters, and these upcoming fixtures will be a true test of their progress.