Sundowns Players with AFCON Call-ups.

SUNDOWNS PLAYERS

WITH AFCON CALL-UPS

In a remarkable feat for the Club, Mamelodi Sundowns has once again showcased its dominance not only in South African football but across the African continent.

During the much-anticipated AFCON 2023, the illustrious squad of Bafana Bafana proudly boasted ten formidable players from the Sundowns stable. The roster includes Ronwen Williams, Grant Kekana, Terrence Mashego, Aubrey Modiba, Mothobi Mvala, Khuliso Mudau, Themba Zwane, Teboho Mokoena, Thapelo Maseko, and Thapelo Morena.

Notably, this remarkable representation solidifies Sundowns' standing as the club with the highest number of call-ups in South Africa, and indeed, the entire African continent. The Brazilian-inspired ensemble has not only conquered domestic competitions but has extended its influence to the international stage, making it the benchmark of local football excellence. Even beyond the South African borders, Namibian striker Peter Shalulile adds to the Sundowns' contingent, proudly securing his place in the final squad list for the Namibian national team.

Ronwen Williams

Player Name: Ronwen Williams
Position: Goalkeeper
Country: South Africa

Fun Fact/Profile:
Ronwen earns his call-up after a stellar 2023, where he served as the impenetrable wall for Masandawana. In the 2022/2023 PSL season, he claimed a record 18 clean sheets, establishing himself as the goalkeeper with the most clean sheets in a single campaign. His exceptional performance continued in the AFRICAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE, where he kept five clean sheets in six games, conceding only two goals. This outstanding achievement led to Ronwen being named the Player of the Tournament. As the shot-stopper and captain, he is set to lead his team with determination and skill, aiming for African glory.

Grant Kekana

Player Name: Grant Kekana
Position: Defender
Country: South Africa

Fun Fact/Profile:
After making the move from Supersport United, Grant Kekana seamlessly integrated into the Sundowns culture. His adaptability and skill quickly earned him a regular spot, becoming a vital player in Sundowns' record-breaking 2022/2023 season. The hardworking defender's dedication at the back was duly recognized with a nomination for Defender of the Season. In the current season, Kekana has showcased his goal-scoring prowess with three goals, and he aims to carry this impressive form into the AFCON Tournament as he proudly represents his country.

Terrence Mashego

Player Name: Terrence Mashego
Position: Defender
Country: South Africa

Fun Fact/Profile:
Terrence Mashego, a seasoned left-back, has been a consistent presence for Bafana Bafana. His impressive performances caught the attention of Masandawana, prompting them to secure his services when he became available on the market. Mashego is renowned for his attacking prowess from deep positions, often overloading the wing with his forward runs and delivering precision crosses. What sets him apart is his unique ability to strike a balance between defense and attack, showcasing intelligence and awareness on the field. As he dons the national colours, Mashego is poised to serve his country with pride.

Mothobi Mvala

Player Name: Mothobi Mvala
Position: Defender
Country: South Africa

Fun Fact/Profile:
Mothobi Mvala, a stalwart in the Masandawana family since 2020, has been a consistent presence for Bafana Bafana. Additionally, he was a valuable member of the Rio 2016 Olympics squad. Known for his robust tackling, aerial prowess, and composed ball control, the central defender brings a unique set of skills to the field. As he prepares to grace the continental stage, he aims to showcase his talent and contribute to the national team's success.

Khuliso Mudau

Player Name: Khuliso Mudau
Position: Defender
Country: South Africa

Fun Fact/Profile:
Khuliso Mudau, affectionately known as "Sailor," made his mark during the 19/20 season with a significant move to Mamelodi Sundowns. While his natural position is right-back, Mudau is a remarkably versatile right-sided player, capable of performing anywhere on the right-hand side of the pitch. Renowned for his skillful and energetic style of play, especially in advancing forward, Mudau brings a dynamic quality to the game. Having gained valuable continental experience, he aspires to contribute significantly to Bafana Bafana's success.

Teboho Mokoena

Player Name: Teboho Mokoena
Position: Midfielder
Country: South Africa

Fun Fact/Profile:
Since his arrival at Sundowns in the January window of 2022, Teboho Mokoena has seamlessly integrated into Coach Mokwena's well-oiled system. Renowned for his composure, vision, precise passing, and adeptness in controlling play, Mokoena plays a pivotal role in linking the defense and attack. With an eye for goal, he often showcases his scoring prowess by arriving late in the box or unleashing powerful shots from outside. Known for his exquisite diagonal passing, Mokoena is poised to be one of the standout players to watch at the tournament.

Aubrey Modiba

Player Name: Aubrey Modiba
Position: Defender/Midfielder
Country: South Africa

Fun Fact/Profile:
Affectionately known as the "Postman," Aubrey Modiba showcases his versatility as a player who has predominantly played as a left-sided midfielder. However, owing to his natural talent and high football IQ, Modiba has demonstrated exceptional performances for Masandawana, often occupying the role of an "inverted left back." Having represented his country through the youth ranks, Modiba takes immense pride in being part of the group striving to bring the trophy back to South Africa.

Thapelo Maseko

Player Name: Thapelo Maseko
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Country: South Africa

Fun Fact/Profile:
Thapelo Maseko, the dynamic and speedy winger, joined Masandawana for the 2023/2024 season and swiftly captured the hearts of the Masandawana family with his explosive performances. At just 21 years old, Maseko is known for his exceptional pace, intelligent movement, skillful play, and remarkable attacking prowess. In his debut season, Maseko played a crucial role in Masandawana's triumph in the inaugural AFL, scoring two goals and earning accolades as the tournament's top goalscorer and player of the tournament. Now, Maseko aspires to replicate this outstanding form as he proudly wears the colours of Bafana Bafana.

Thapelo Morena

Player Name: Thapelo Morena
Position: Midfielder/Defender
Country: South Africa

Fun Fact/Profile:
Known as 'The Speedster,' Thapelo Morena has been an integral part of the Sundowns family since his arrival from Siwelele in 2016. This versatile right-sided player has made a significant impact, showcasing his capabilities in both attack and defense for The Brazilians. Considered a stalwart for the club, Morena's contributions have played a vital role in Sundowns' success, both domestically and internationally. His speed, agility, and adeptness on the field make him a key asset for the team, and his experience will undoubtedly be a valuable asset in the upcoming tournament.

Themba Zwane

Name: Themba Zwane
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Country: South Africa

Fun Fact/Profile:
Themba Zwane, affectionately known as "Mshishi," has been an integral part of the Sundowns family for over a decade, earning his place not only in the hearts of Masandawana but also in the books of South African football. Mshishi is celebrated for his extraordinary technical ability, combined with a footballing IQ that sets him apart. With a trophy-laden career at Sundowns, the talismanic midfielder aims to replicate his stellar form on the grand stage.
Considered by many football enthusiasts as one of the greatest players in the PSL era, Mshishi's will wear the colours of Bafana Bafana with pride, as fans eagerly anticipate witnessing his magic unfold on the continental stage.

Peter Shalulile

Player Name: Peter Shalulile
Position: Striker
Country: Namibia

Fun Fact/Profile:
Peter Shalulile, the prolific striker from Namibia, is synonymous with goal-scoring prowess. In the past four seasons, Shalulile has showcased his scoring acumen by clinching the PSL Golden Boot three times, showing his consistent excellence on the field. His goal-scoring exploits have made him a fan favourite, celebrated for his breathtaking performances, tenacity, and high work ethic.
Shalulile is a formidable force on the field, posing a constant threat to opposition defenses with or without the ball. His remarkable achievements include a nomination for the 2023 CAF Interclub Player of the Year, underscoring his impact and recognition at the continental level. As Bafana Bafana face the Brave Warriors of Namibia in the AFCON, Shalulile finds himself in a unique situation, competing against ten of his Sundowns teammates, adding an intriguing layer to the tournament.

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