Thapelo Maseko’s Limited Game Time Explained by Mamelodi Sundowns Coach Miguel Cardoso

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has clarified the reasons behind winger Thapelo Maseko’s limited appearances this season. The former SuperSport United winger has spent much of the campaign watching Sundowns matches from the bench, the stands, or on television when he does not travel with the team.

Maseko’s situation has sparked speculation about a possible exit, but no move has materialised. Last season, he made 14 appearances, all as a substitute, despite Sundowns playing over 50 matches in all competitions.

During an MTN8 press conference addressing Matias Esquivel’s exit, Cardoso provided insight into Maseko’s current status at Chloorkop. He explained that players must prove themselves in training to earn playing time.

“A player during a training session must show he is better than the ones playing in the same position. For example, let’s think about Maseko. He is a player who can play mostly on the left or more inside on the right and he can also play as a number nine,” Cardoso said.

He added that Sundowns’ depth in attacking positions makes competition intense. On the left, Siyabonga Mabena and Tashreeq Matthews occupy key spots. On the right, Arthur Sales competes alongside Ribeiro and Kutlwano Letlhaku. Up front, Iqraam Rayners and Peter Shalulile are first choices. Cardoso emphasized that claiming a spot requires consistently outperforming established players in training, not merely requesting game time.

The coach cited Arthur Sales as an example of a player who initially struggled to impress but earned his place through persistent effort, scoring, assisting, and showing determination in training.

Maseko is not expected to feature when Sundowns face Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 first-leg semi-final at Orlando Stadium on Saturday. The young winger will need to demonstrate his abilities consistently to secure more opportunities in the squad.