Tashreeq Matthews Tipped for Bafana Bafana After Impressive Mamelodi Sundowns Performances
Tashreeq Matthews has become one of the most talked about players in South African football. His rise has impressed analysts, former coaches, and supporters who now believe he is close to a breakthrough for Bafana Bafana. His sharp displays for Mamelodi Sundowns have changed the direction of a career that once seemed uncertain during his early years in Europe.
Matthews struggled to find his place while in Germany. He joined Borussia Dortmund in 2018 and spent two years with their youth structures without breaking into the senior team. Loan spells at Jong Utrecht and Helsingborgs IF followed. After his release, he moved to Varbergs BoIS and later to IK Sirius. He played across Europe but did not settle or produce consistent numbers. The turning point came when Sundowns signed him from Sirius in January 2024. He has since become a regular starter under Miguel Cardoso and plays a central role in the team’s attacking structure. His creativity, movement, and calm in tight spaces have earned him praise. Many insiders believe he will soon make the jump to the national team.
Former Ajax Cape Town coach Vladislav Heric worked with Matthews during his development and has followed his progress closely. He says Matthews has grown through setbacks and is ready for the next level. Heric believes the player needed time to mature and that his struggles in Europe shaped his current form. He says the forward’s decision to come back home was not a step back. South Africa’s league demands physical strength, tactical discipline, and sharp decision making. Heric believes it suits Matthews better than the Swedish top flight.
Heric says Matthews’ success with Sundowns proves he made the correct choice. He describes Sundowns as the most organised club in the country with strong structures and high standards. He believes Matthews is thriving because he works hard, lives a healthy lifestyle, and has found a system that brings out his best qualities. He credits Matthews for grabbing the opportunity and believes the 24-year-old has a higher ceiling than many players of his age group.
Despite the praise, Hugo Broos has once again left Matthews out of his preliminary AFCON squad. This has sparked debate because several Sundowns players made the list. Ronwen Williams, Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba, Malibongwe Khoza, Fawaaz Basadien, Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas, Iqraam Rayners, and Themba Zwane all received call ups. Matthews’ form suggests his chance will come soon. Heric believes it is only a matter of time before he gets the nod.
Matthews already has a Premier Soccer League title in his first full year with Sundowns. He now plays an important role as the club aims for more trophies in the 2025/26 season. The competition from Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs remains strong, but Sundowns have managed to stay ahead through consistency and depth. Matthews brings energy and intelligence to their attack, which helps them control matches and create clear chances.
Sundowns have also impressed in the CAF Champions League. They took charge of Group C after beating Saint Eloi Lupopo, and Matthews contributed to the team’s push for continental success. His confidence continues to grow with every match. His journey from a Dortmund prospect to a key figure for the PSL champions shows resilience and steady development. Many expect him to become one of the leading attackers in the country. His progress indicates he is closer than ever to earning a place in the Bafana Bafana squad.
