Downs tighten grip as new signing adds to selection riches

NEW BLOOD: Masandawana surged six points clear after dismantling Siwelele and now head to Chippa United strengthened by the arrival of Bafana Bafana defender Thabang Matuludi…

By Lehlohonolo Lehana

Mamelodi Sundowns will carry growing momentum and an increasingly formidable squad into their weekend Betway Premiership clash against Chippa United at Buffalo City Stadium in East London.

The defending champions tightened their grip on the league leadership with a convincing 3–0 midweek victory over Siwelele FC at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

After being frustrated during a goalless first half, Sundowns turned up the pressure after the interval, with Kutlwano Letlhaku, Siyanda Ndlovu and Tashreeq Matthews finding the net.

The result lifted Miguel Cardoso’s side to 19 points from seven matches — six points ahead of second-placed Orlando Pirates, who have played two games fewer. Sundowns have won six of their opening seven league assignments. The victory also stretched their unbeaten home run in the Premiership to 33 matches. The PSL confirmed the result and updated standings.

Their capacity to produce three different goalscorers underlined the depth Cardoso can call upon as the club prepares to balance its domestic ambitions with another demanding continental campaign.

That depth has now been increased further by the signing of Bafana Bafana right-back Thabang Matuludi from Polokwane City.

“Mamelodi Sundowns are excited to welcome Thabang Matuludi to the Masandawana family! Yellow Nation, let’s welcome him in the comments,” the club said when announcing his arrival.

The 27-year-old was part of the Bafana Bafana squad that competed at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico.

Matuludi made 72 appearances across all competitions for Polokwane City, scoring six goals and providing two assists. However, he had not featured for the Limpopo club this season after returning from international duty.

His move offers him a fresh start but also places him in one of the most fiercely contested departments at Chloorkop.

Cardoso already has Khuliso Mudau, Thapelo Morena and Zuko Mdunyelwa among his right-back options. Sundowns also unveiled former Orlando Pirates defender Deano van Rooyen earlier in the week.

The Portuguese coach has distanced himself from the club’s recruitment decisions, emphasising that Sundowns have a dedicated scouting structure responsible for identifying and signing players.

Matuludi will therefore have to convince Cardoso on the training ground that he possesses the quality and tactical discipline required to earn regular playing time. His international experience and attacking ability make him an attractive addition, but reputation alone will not guarantee him a place in a squad loaded with proven performers.

Sundowns now travel to East London to face a Chippa United side still searching for its first league victory of the season.

The Chilli Boys occupy 12th position with four points from five matches, while Downs have already established themselves at the summit. That contrast makes the visitors overwhelming favourites, but Cardoso will be wary of complacency and the short turnaround following Wednesday’s exertions.

The encounter kicks off at 5.30pm on Saturday at Buffalo City Stadium. Fixture details have been confirmed by the ticketing platform.

With Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs still holding matches in hand, Downs cannot afford to loosen their grip. Victory in East London would move them nine points clear of Pirates — even if temporarily — and increase the pressure on their closest rivals to win their outstanding fixtures.

For Matuludi, the weekend trip could offer his first glimpse of life inside the champions’ match-day environment.

For Downs, it represents another opportunity to demonstrate that their strength lies not only in the quality of their starting team, but also in a bench deep enough to sustain another title assault. Fullview/WSAM