History-making Sundowns applauded

The National Soccer League (NSL), together with millions of football supporters in South Africa and the African continent, is celebrating Mamelodi Sundowns’ triumph in the Confederation of African Football (Caf) Champions League.

Mamelodi Sundowns were crowned as African Club Kings on Sunday night after winning 3–1 on aggregate against the Egyptian team, Zamalek. “The league would like to congratulate Mamelodi Sundowns president, Patrice Motsepe, the coach Pitso Mosimane and his technical team, the players and the entire Sundowns family.

“This is a special moment in history, not only for Mamelodi Sundowns, but for the entire NSL family and also southern African football,” said the league’s spokesperson, Luxolo September.

“For the NSL to continue playing an important role on and off the field in African and global football, it is important for our clubs to take their place on the global stage and showcase our capabilities on the field,” said September.

Mamelodi Sundowns will be the first southern African club to play in the Fifa Club World Cup in Japan later in December, this year. Meanwhile, Gauteng MEC for Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Faith Mazibuko applauded Sundowns, describing them as the ‘African conquerors’. “It’s rewarding when a plan comes to fruition,” she said.

“Sundowns have long been a very ambitious outfit who always wanted to do well, not only in South Africa but the entire continent. Today its mission is accomplished and now they are champions of Africa.”

She added that Sundowns triumphed under difficult circumstances where their preparations were hampered but the team showed character and an undying spirit to say ‘we shall overcome’.

Mazibuko said it was now about time for South Africa to begin making its presence felt in continental football and she hopes this will bring much more success and glory to the entire football team.

On behalf of the Gauteng Provincial Government, Mazibuko congratulated the entire team, including players, technical team and the club’s president for investing all the resources to ensure this success.

“We are also happy that you are bringing home the trophy to Gauteng – the home of champions. We should also thank the team’s supporters and all South Africans who rallied behind the team including those who are not necessarily Sundowns supporters.

“It was and has been gratifying to see that sport continues to bring us together as a nation, something to be very proud of,” Mazibuko said.