Themba Zwane opens up on his return as Mamelodi Sundowns edge closer to record-extending PSL title with Stellenbosch FC ready to spoil the run-in

Leaders Mamelodi Sundowns are making the final push in their pursuit of a record-extending eighth straight Premier Soccer League title.

They host Stellenbosch FC at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday in a match they will be coming up against opponents determined to finish the campaign third and return to the Caf Confederation Cup.

Sundowns captain Themba Zwane recently returned from a long-term injury and might start his first match since October 2025. He is well aware of what they are facing in Stellebosch.

“It feels good [to be back] because it’s the moment that I have been working hard to be part of the team,” Zwane told Sundowns media. 

“For me to be part of the team makes me happy, and I can see my brothers are also happy for me.

“The excitement is there, and you can see how we are playing; we are doing well and winning games. The brotherhood and team spirit are more important.

“Honestly, I am expecting a tough game [against Stellenbosch] because they were playing in the Confederation Cup and doing well," added the Masandawana skipper. 

“But even with us, we have been doing well. We have been scoring more goals and creating more chances. So it’s going to be an exciting game to watch.”

The Brazilians have 12 points more than second-placed Orlando Pirates and need four points from their remaining three PSL games to be confirmed as champions of the 2024-25 season.

Should they manage to collect four points in their next two games, that would render their last league match against Magesi FC a dead rubber.

As Sundowns are nearing being crowned champions, their closest challengers, Pirates, are trying to win the Nedbank Cup as a reprieve in case they miss out on the league title.

The Brazilians will be without midfielder Marcelo Allende and defender Mosa Lebusa who are suspended for the Stellenbosch match.

But with coach Miguel Cardoso having a squad rich in depth, he might not worry much about having the two players unavailable.