Mamelodi Sundowns return to Betway Premiership after international break, ready for Magesi

Mamelodi Sundowns return to Betway Premiership action on Sunday in Pretoria after an international break that saw key players away, aiming to sharpen cohesion and prepare for Magesi. 

During the break, the Brazilians worked hard behind the scenes with the players who stayed behind, keeping intensity high and focusing on tactical drills. 

Sundowns had eight players on international duty, six for Bafana Bafana whilst Dennis Onyango featured for Uganda and Peter Shalulile for Namibia

Experienced striker Lebo Mothiba highlighted the commitment of the squad in his chat with the club’s media department. 

“During this international break, we worked very hard and very good with the players that stayed behind, now we have a game against Magesi,” he said. 

With internationals returning, the Brazilians will have near full strength to reinforce the rhythm built during the break.

Sundowns sit third on the log, having collected 11 points from a possible 15, but Mothiba admits the team is eager to establish consistency after a sluggish start to the season.

The striker also reflected on their recent league meeting in Limpopo, where Sundowns edged Magesi 1-0. 

“It’s not a tricky thing mentally (playing Magesi twice in a short period of time), we’re all professional and everyone here has experience and it’s a good thing that we’re playing them now because we saw how they play and learnt how they play and we are ready for them.” 

The narrow victory in Limpopo has given Sundowns confidence and insight into Magesi’s style, which they can now exploit further at home.

Mothiba also assessed Magesi’s threat. “I don’t think they’ll arrive with anything new, we all know their style of play, they’re very direct, with long balls and big strikers.” 

Sundowns’ ability to read and neutralize Magesi’s approach – combined with their own attacking fluency – gives them a tactical edge as they look to dominate proceedings.

Despite the absence of several internationals, Sundowns’ squad that remained in Pretoria maintained intensity and focus, ensuring that training sessions were productive. 

With key players back this weekend, the Brazilians can blend experience with tactical sharpness to continue their strong start.

Sunday’s fixture is about more than just points. It’s an opportunity for Sundowns to reinforce momentum, demonstrate squad depth, and cement their position among the Betway Premiership frontrunners. 

Lessons from Limpopo, combined with preparation during the break, suggest that Sundowns are ready to make a statement in Pretoria.