THE NEW
 KID
ON
THE BLOCK:
CASSIUS
 MAILULA

© Gavin Barker - Backpage PixCassius celebrating his first DSTV Premiership goal against Maritzburg UnitedAuthor: John AliuWhile growing up, Cassius Mailula’s big dream was to share the pitch with Mamelodi Sundowns legend, Themba Zwane. The youngster’s wish was granted when he came on as a 70th-minute substitute against Chippa United during a DSTV Premiership match in September.The promising 21-year-old footballer is part of a group of next-generation talents who have earned a promotion to the first team from the Masandawana Youth Academy this season.

The left-footed attacker played in the M-tigers under Coach Godfrey Sapula, where he was converted from a midfielder to a striker. He had been with the academy since 2016, where he was scouted from the Limpopo Sports School of Excellence.
© Gavin Barker - Backpage PixCassius making an impact on the pitch with the senior teamMAMELODI SUNDOWNS DIGITAL MAGAZINE SAT DOWN WITH THE MIDFIELD SENSATION WHO HAS ALREADY STAMPED HIS AUTHORITY IN THE FIRST TEAM.
Mamelodi Sundowns (MS): How would you describe the feeling of making your senior team debut?
Cassius Mailula (CM): It is the dream of every youngster in the Academy to play in the first team. I felt nervous when the coach called me to warm up from the bench. We were facing a defensive minded Chippa United on the day and the score was still 0-0. The pressure was mounting because the team was searching for a late goal. Thankfully, Peter Shalulile found the back of the net and my debut ended on a winning note!
MS: Who was your childhood footballing hero?
CM:
Teko Modise. The first time I saw him on the ball, I knew I wanted to play like him. His footballing brain and his ability to unlock opposing defences made him a hero to most kids in my age group. I had the privilege to watch his games and he achieved so much with Mamelodi Sundowns, including the first CAF Champions League trophy. I think it’s great that he is an Ambassador for the club so that young players like myself can learn from him.
MS: Which current Mamelodi Sundowns player do you admire the most?
CM:
Themba Zwane is the man! What he does with the ball never ceases to amaze me. As a midfielder, I love his confidence on the ball, and watching him play has improved my understanding of the game. I also appreciate his consistency over the years. I often ask him questions about the game and he always gives me advice. He is someone I look up to and it is a privilege to finally play with him.
MS: What are your dreams with Mamelodi Sundowns?
CM:
The plan is to work hard and impress my coaches so I can earn more game time and continue my growth as a player. I look forward to learning as much as I can from my experienced teammates. As a junior from the academy, my dream is to win the league and the CAF Champions League with Mamelodi Sundowns, this is something we all aspire to achieve.
MS: Which footballer are you looking forward to seeing the most at the FIFA World Cup and why?
CM:
I have to go for Lionel Messi. There are no words to describe him because he has broken all kinds of records. I love his movements with and without the ball. I hope he finally gets the chance to win the World Cup with Argentina.
MS: What is your fondest World Cup memory?
CM:
It must be the opening goal of the 2010 World Cup by Siphiwe Tshabalala. It was the perfect way to open a major football tournament. I loved the way the players celebrated the goal, and I cannot forget that day in South Africa. The entire nation shook when that goal was scored.
MS: Which young player are you tipping to impress at the World Cup?
CM: Vinicius Junior from Brazil and Real Madrid. He is still young but the way he takes on seasoned players is amazing. I can’t wait to see what he does with his teammates, Neymar, Gabriel Jesus and Rodrygo. Brazil is my team in Qatar.
Cassius Mailula shares a first name with the great Muhammad Ali who was born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. While no comparisons and relationships can be established in any way, the Sundowns midfielder will be hoping to carve out his own name and legacy in football.
So far, the young sensation’s star seems to grow brighter with every opportunity he gets to play as a Sandawana.