The Betway Premiership title race may still be up for grabs, but the Tshwane giants are increasingly operating beyond the usual domestic rivalry. Despite surrendering their league crown last season, the Brazilians' achievements beyond the Premier Soccer League have strengthened their standing, with former star Anthony Laffor arguing that the club is now chasing ambitions far bigger than simply dominating South African football.
Former Amakhosi tactician Cavin Johnson has thrown his weight behind Masandawana to continue their historic ascent on the world stage. Following their recent success in the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup, the Brazilians are now eyeing a potential blockbuster final against European giants Paris Saint-Germain if they beat the Derby of the Americas winners.
The Brazilians have added yet another trophy to their bulging cabinet but this time it was on the global stage. From domestic dominance, to a second star, and now way beyond our continental borders, this club have reset the bar for achievement says columnist Lerato Mkhondo.
The Masandawana midfielder remained remarkably composed after firing the African giants to international glory against the Asian champions. The Portuguese star played the starring role at Loftus Versfeld, proving once again why he is considered one of the most clinical creative forces in the modern game.
Former Amakhosi stalwart Willard Katsande has offered a bold comparison for Thabo Cele’s high-profile move to Mamelodi Sundowns, likening it to the blockbuster transfer of Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City. The Zimbabwean midfield legend believes that seeing a top-tier talent move between domestic heavyweights is a sign of a healthy, competitive market.
The former Chelsea goalkeeper has delivered a glowing assessment of The Brazilians following their recent high-stakes encounter in South Africa. The Al Ahli captain was left impressed by the tactical discipline and technical quality displayed by the reigning African champions.
Pressure is mounting on Al-Malaki head coach Marino Pusic following a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns in the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup. The Asian champions struggled to exert their authority in Pretoria, leading to fierce criticism of the manager's tactical decisions and game management.
Fresh from a landmark victory over the Asian champions, the Tshwane giants have made their intentions clear ahead of the next challenge. Despite having immense respect for the game and their opponents, there is no room for intimidation when they come up against the biggest names on the continental and global stage.
The celebrations continued for the Pretoria outfit as they once again raised the South African flag high, securing their place in the next stage of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup after overcoming the Asian champions in a closely contested affair. The Brazilians showed their character on the big stage, battling through a tight contest before eventually getting the result they needed to keep their impressive journey alive.
The Brazilians defender has opened up on his emotional return to the South African national team fold. The experienced wing-back was a surprise inclusion in Pitso Mosimane’s latest selection following a difficult period spent on the sidelines.
Al Ahli
