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NEO MAEMA
AIMING TO BUILD
ON FIRST SEASON SUCCESS
© Samuel Shivambu - BackpagePixNeo Maema celebrates goal during the DStv Premiership 202122 match between Mamelodi Sundowns and Supersport UnitedAuthor: John AliuThanks to his eye-catching goals, mazy runs and mesmerising skills, Neo “Billy” Maema has hit the ground running at Mamelodi Sundowns. The attacking midfielder who joined from Bloemfontein Celtic stamped his footballing authority in his debut season at Chloorkop.From his swerving shot against Sekhukhune United in the DSTV Premiership to his sumptuous strike against Golden Arrows in the MTN 8 second leg semi-final clash, Billy stole the hearts of supporters during his first season with The Brazilians.

In November last year, Maema played in five matches, scoring two goals and bagging three assists. Thus, Billy was named Player of the Month and was rewarded with a sleek and stylish Hyundai Creta.
The Bloemfontein-born midfielder spoke about his debut season with Bafana Ba Style, which saw him win the MTN 8 title, DSTV Premiership crown and Nedbank Cup.

“I came to Chloorkop to improve my chances of winning silverware and challenge myself,” the Midfielder said. “Before moving to Sundowns, I had never won any trophies in my professional career and winning the domestic treble in my maiden season is something to cherish.”

Apart from his terrific assists and magnificent first touch, Billy was often lauded for his shooting ability, which saw him smash in several astonishing crackers.

“When you arrive at a star-studded team like Sundowns, you have to fight for your place and take the opportunity when it comes. I am very grateful to the technical team for their guidance as well as my teammates for their continuous support. Scoring great goals is nice, but winning is what matters the most” expressed Billy.
Neo Maema during the 2022 Nedbank Cup quarterfinals match between Mamelodi Sundowns and Summerfield Dynamos© Samuel Shivambu - BackpagePixThe Botshabelo-born midfielder spoke about his debut season with Bafana Ba Style, which saw him win the MTN 8 title, DSTV Premiership crown and Nedbank Cup.

“I came to Chloorkop to improve my chances of winning silverware and challenge myself,” the Midfielder said. “Before moving to Sundowns, I had never won any trophies in my professional career and winning the domestic treble in my maiden season is something to cherish.”
Neo Maema celebrates during the DStv Premiership 2021/22 match between Royal AM and Mamelodi Sundowns© Sydney Mahlangu - BackpagePixApart from his terrific assists and magnificent first touch, Billy was often lauded for his shooting ability, which saw him smash in several astonishing crackers.

“When you arrive at a star-studded team like Sundowns, you have to fight for your place and take the opportunity when it comes. I am very grateful to the technical team for their guidance as well as my teammates for their continuous support. Scoring great goals is nice, but winning is what matters the most” expressed Billy.
Neo Maema celebrates goal during the 2021 MTN8 semi final 2nd leg match between Mamelodi Sundowns and Golden Arrows© Samuel Shivambu - BackpagePixAfter enjoying a superb first season with Masandawana, Maema is aiming for a repeat and is eyeing the highly coveted CAF Champions League.

“We are gearing up for the busy term ahead as we plan to defend our titles and aim for continental glory. Restoring Mamelodi Sundowns to the pinnacle of African football is one of the major objectives for the season,” Billy declared.
© Samuel Shivambu - BackpagePixSupporters and commentators often believe that Billy has no weaker foot, something that the midfielder weighed in on.
“As a footballer, you need to work on your weaknesses; that is why I feel comfortable using both feet. This coming campaign, I want to contribute more goals and assists,” Maema declared.

“And who knows, maybe I might get a few more memorable strikes.”

FOUR FUN FACTS ABOUT NEO MAEMA1. Holds a Bachelor in Chemistry degree from the University of the Free State2. His goal celebration is inspired by Khaby Lame (most-followed TikToker in the world)3. He is a big fan of Hip-Hop music and his favourite artist is Rick Ross and J. Cole4. He was recently honoured by the University of the Free State for his footballing excellence