Mamelodi Sundowns FC news

Ever since he went to North Africa, starting with a stint at Wydad Casablanca and now in Algeria, the youthful coach has never met his former employers, Masandawana. The only time he came up against the Brazilians was when he was at Orlando Pirates as an assistant after leaving the Tshwane giants. Now a battle looms between Rhulani Mokwena and Mamelodi Sundowns.

The forward struggled while in Germany but has found his footing since he made the unexpected move after several stints abroad. He is not only a regular starter under Miguel Cardoso but also plays a critical role as a creative brain in the club's attacking adventures. Now, he has been tipped as the next big thing for Bafana Bafana, given the progress he has made.

Masandawana attacking midfielder Nuno Santos shared his reasons for joining the lethal Sundowns squad in the Premier Soccer League, following their three–one triumph over FC Saint Eloi Lupopo — the same side that knocked out the mighty Orlando Pirates — in Saturday’s CAF Champions League group-stage clash at Loftus Versfeld Stadium. The midfielder made a powerful statement, netting two goals and providing an assist for the Tshwane giants while donning the famous No. 10 jersey, with the third goal finished off by Marcelo Allende.

The Western Cape side pulled out all the tricks in the book when they took their Congolese opponents, AS Otohô to Polokwane due to stadium unavailability in the Mother City. The move ultimately worked in Stellies’ favour, as they walked away with maximum points at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium, securing a one-nil victory in the dying minutes. It was the perfect start to their continental campaign, especially after falling short in the semi-finals of the previous competition.

It was almost the perfect weekend for Mzansi sides in continental football. Mamelodi Sundowns were in CAF Champions League action on Saturday, while Stellenbosch FC and Kaizer Chiefs did duty in the Confederation Cup on Sunday. Downs, although slightly underwhelming, managed to beat Orlando Pirates slayers Saint Eloi-Lupopo at home. Stellies, meanwhile, left it late to see off Otoho d’Oyo. It was then over to Amakhosi to ensure South African teams completed a perfect outing in the CAF interclub competition, but they disappointed.

With the playmaker experiencing limited playtime for the Glamour Boys, debate on whether he should be released or his contract extended has been intensifying. With Chiefs engaging in the CAF Confederation campaign this season, one would think Sirino's presence will give the Soweto giants a competitive edge in terms of experience. But with stiff competition for starting slots in the club, it could be hard for the former Mamelodi Sundowns star to be guaranteed regular minutes.

Masandawana have been termed as one of the biggest teams in Africa, and their rivals have been told to be aware of how dangerous they are. Saint-Eloi Lupopo are one of the recent victims to suffer at the hands of the Pretoria heavyweights. After the 3-1 win against the DR Congo outfit, the Brazilians have been compared to European clubs.

The Masandawana tactician has revealed how he is viewing their Champions League second Group C game. The coach has also said that the Brazilians are planning to beat Mokwena's side when they meet on Friday for yet another crucial game. While the Tshwane giants will be determined to win and consolidate their position at the top of the table, MC Alger will be desperate to register their victory.

The DR Congo international drew significant attention in October after his dramatic showing at Orlando Pirates’ stadium. His display even caught the interest of Kaizer Chiefs players Bruce Bvuma and George Matlou, who video-called him in a light-hearted jab at their Soweto rivals. Adding to that, popular Amakhosi supporter Papa Wawa presented the defender with a special gift upon his return to South Africa last week. That has all heightened the buzz around the player’s growing profile.

The South African tactician is set for an emotional reunion with a club he won multiple titles with while he was in charge of the Premier Soccer League giants. Mokwena's MC Alger and Sundowns will clash in the group stage, and each will aggressively fight for the crucial points. Meanwhile, Modiba says even though there is respect between them and their former mentor, that will not deter them from going for a win against MC Alger.

Masandawana were relatively quiet in the last transfer window, opting for minimal activity in the market. Of the four signings they made, the arrival of two Portuguese midfielders has generated the most anticipation and scrutiny. Both are expected to deliver at a higher level than their former Brazilian star who departed for Spain.

Although their display was not entirely convincing, Masandawana managed to collect crucial points in their CAF Champions League campaign. Starting with three points in a group that has heavyweights like Rhulani Mokwena's MC Alger and Sudanese giants Al Hilal should be considered an early achievement for Downs, who hope to go all the way to the final again. Nuno Santos, who is having a good start to life with the Tshwane giants, keeps proving why he was signed by the Brazilians, who wanted a player who would bring the X factor.

Amakhosi cruised past Chippa United, delivering a commanding performance. Meanwhile, the Buccaneers tightened their grip on the summit, opening a five‑point cushion after overcoming Richards Bay. Saturday’s results underline the growing intensity of the title race, with both giants finding form at a crucial stage of the campaign.