Grant Kekana Vows to Restore Mamelodi Sundowns Dominance Amid Title and CAF Pressure
Mamelodi Sundowns defender Grant Kekana has admitted that the club is facing a different kind of challenge this season, but he remains confident that the team can return to its dominant best. At this stage of the campaign, Sundowns are usually leading the Betway Premiership standings comfortably and preparing for the CAF Champions League knockout rounds. This time, the situation is more demanding both domestically and on the continent. Their pursuit of a ninth consecutive league title is under serious threat from Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, who have shown consistency and belief in their quest to dethrone the Tshwane giants. The pressure has created a competitive environment that Sundowns have not experienced in recent years, forcing the squad to confront unfamiliar obstacles.
In the CAF Champions League, the stakes are equally high as Sundowns prepare for a decisive Group C clash against MC Alger at Loftus Stadium. The Brazilians sit third in the group with six points after five matches and must secure a victory to guarantee progression to the knockout stages. Anything less than three points would result in elimination at this stage for the first time since 2018, a scenario that would intensify scrutiny on head coach Miguel Cardoso. This pressure comes amid reports of unrest behind the scenes following the suspension of analyst Mario Masha over alleged leaks of tactical information. Such developments have added to the narrative that Sundowns are navigating both on field and off field distractions during a critical phase of the season.
Speaking during a Nedbank Cup press conference, Kekana acknowledged that results and performances have not met the standards set in previous campaigns. He pointed out that the majority of the squad remains the same group that dominated South African football in recent years, estimating that 60 to 70 percent of the team is unchanged. According to the defender, the solution lies in alignment, accountability and consistent application in every match. He stressed that Sundowns cannot afford complacency because rivals are improving and closing the gap. The defender made it clear that the focus is on restoring intensity and rediscovering the style of play that made them the most feared side in the league.
Kekana described the current period as a test of character for a club accustomed to success. He explained that true strength is shown not only by lifting trophies but also by responding positively to adversity. The squad sees the challenge as motivation to qualify for the Champions League knockout stages, advance in the Nedbank Cup and remain firmly in the league title race. Senior players have taken responsibility for guiding the group and reinforcing the values that define Sundowns. This internal leadership aims to ensure that the team regains confidence and sharpness before the season reaches its decisive stages.
Despite the noise surrounding the club, Kekana emphasized that the players are focused on what they can control on the pitch. He acknowledged that speculation and criticism are inevitable when a team has dominated for so long and others sense an opportunity to challenge. However, he insisted that the squad is not searching for excuses and remains committed to honoring the jersey. The defender stated that everyone at the club understands the responsibility to leave the team in a stronger position than they found it. With one crucial group stage match remaining and the domestic title race still open, Sundowns now face a defining moment that will determine whether they can extend their legacy of success.
