Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder delighted to return to Bafana Bafana and captain the side against Malawi in CHAN qualifiers — 'It is very important for us to make it to the tournament'

Neo Maema has returned to the Bafana Bafana squad for the crucial CHAN qualifiers against Malawi, with the team needing a victory after a 1-0 defeat in the first leg.

He missed the first encounter due to club commitments but is now eager to contribute and replicate his outstanding performance against Egypt.

The Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder highlighted how these qualifiers are an important opportunity for players, especially those not featuring regularly at club level, to gain match fitness and exposure.

Maema stressed the significance of qualifying for the tournament, as South Africa has not participated in the tournament for years, and this could be a valuable experience for the team.

“Some of the players here don’t play much in their teams, me included, so it’s always nice before the big occasion to just put (in the work) and see how far we are as a team, so that the coaches prepare us in a proper way, so that come Sunday we get the results,” Maema said to SAFA Media.

“I mean it has been twelve years since we qualified for the competition, and as a leader of the team, it is very important that I encourage the guys and tell them it is very important for us to make it to the CHAN tournament, and it will be history with this group of players. It is not only just about this game or qualifying, but also about putting our names in the history books, which is important for us in our careers, individually and as a team.”

Maema has had limited game time this season under Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso, facing tough competition from players like Marcelo Allende and Jayden Adams, who have cemented their spots in the middle of the park.

So far, he has only made six appearances in the league, putting his position at the club under pressure. With competition for places growing, Maema's involvement in international duty may help him regain confidence and form.

While Maema is on international duty, Sundowns will face Stellenbosch, aiming to continue their march toward an eighth league title. The pressure is on to perform, and Sundowns will need their key players to step up.

He will hope that his solid performances for Bafana will translate into more game time at club level. Sundowns' title ambitions will depend on consistency, and Maema’s involvement in both international and club football is crucial for their success.