Themba Zwane on Sundowns’ FIFA Club World Cup Aspirations

Themba Zwane

Sundowns’ FIFA Club World Cup

Aspirations

Author: Natashe Hove

When Mamelodi Sundowns lifted the CAF Champions League trophy in 2016, they earned the right to compete on the global stage at the FIFA Club World Cup in the same year. It was a moment of pride—not just for the Club, but for South African and African football. Now, nearly a decade later, Sundowns are once again preparing to take on the world.

As the FIFA Club World Cup trophy stood in the heart of Chloorkop, reflecting the dreams and ambitions of Mamelodi Sundowns, Club captain Themba Zwane couldn’t help but admire its beauty.

“This trophy is different. I have never seen such a beautiful trophy. We feel proud as Mamelodi Sundowns to be one of the teams competing for this masterpiece.”

For Mshishi, this moment was more about the journey that brought him here and the challenge that awaits Mamelodi Sundowns as they prepare to take on some of the world’s best sides.

A Return to the Big Stage

Zwane is one of only three players from Mamelodi Sundowns’ 2016 CAF Champions League-winning squad who still play for the Club today. That year, he experienced his first FIFA Club World Cup and came back with lessons that shaped him into the player he is today.

“The level is high there. The ball moves quicker, they close spaces faster. The tactical aspect of the game is more complex. It was an opportunity for us to learn a lot, and we came back with those lessons. Even now, we know that we need to continue learning because that is the only way to grow. This tournament is another opportunity for us to test ourselves against the best in the world.”

Fast forward to 2025, and Mamelodi Sundowns are no longer just a South African Club. They are one of Africa’s most dominant teams. Their approach to the FIFA Club World Cup is now more about competing than just participating.
“We came back knowing that we had to elevate our game. That is why, as a Club, we have kept growing. We have improved our game, our style of play, and our mindset. This time, we are going there as a much stronger team.”

“We are not just going there to add numbers. We have our own identity, and our style of play, and we trust it. The goal is to compete, to play our football and to show the world what we are capable of.”

Growth Through Experience

At 35 years old, Zwane has evolved into one of Africa’s finest attacking midfielders, earning respect across the continent for his vision, composure and footballing intelligence. He acknowledges that his game has changed over the years, shaped by his experiences at the highest level for both Club and country.
“I am always pushing myself to become better. Everyday, I work hard, and that has always been my approach. The player I was in 2016 is not the player I am today. I have grown, and I hope to use my experience to help the team in this journey.”

Beyond his personal growth, Zwane recognizes the importance of mentorship in ensuring that the Club’s future remains strong. With young talents emerging at Sundowns, he takes pride in helping them navigate the challenges of professional football.

“It is always good to see young players with ambition and talent coming through to help the team. We work together to help each other grow. That competitive environment makes us better individually and as a team.”

Fighting to Return Stronger

For now, Themba Zwane is focused on his recovery from injury, determined to come back stronger and continue making an impact for the team. Though being sidelined is never easy, he sees it as just another challenge in his journey.

“I am recovering well. I am running on the side, pushing myself to come back stronger. As a player, you never like missing games, but challenges like these help us grow. My focus now is to get back to full fitness and continue doing what I love, for this badge, for my teammates, and for Masandawana.”

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