Can the in-form Cassius Mailula be the solution to Mamelodi Sundowns' MTN8 hoodoo run?
Mamelodi Sundowns are eager to prove that they are not prioritising only the CAF Champions League and the Betway Premiership, which is why they are determined to end their MTN8 hoodoo this season.
Sundowns are the champions of African football, a status secured after ending a 10-year drought in the continental competition last season. This achievement followed their prolonged dominance on the domestic scene, where they secured eight consecutive league titles before last season.
However, their league and continental success has created the perception that they have neglected other trophies, particularly domestic silverware. Their last triumph in the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup dates back to the 2021/22 season, under the co-coaching tenure of Manqoba Mngqithi and Rulani Mokwena.
Their recent record in the MTN8 has faced heavy scrutiny, especially given that the competition offers a R10 million winner’s cheque, serves as the first silverware of the season, and provides a platform to set the tone for the remainder of the campaign.
