Van Wyk dedicates Mamelodi Sundowns debut goal to late Jayden Adams

Antonio Van Wyk dedicated the goal he scored on his Mamelodi Sundowns debut to the late Jayden Adams after helping the two-time African champions reach the MTN8 semi-finals.

The 24-year-old marked his first official appearance for the Brazilians with a goal and an assist as Mamelodi Sundowns recovered from a goal down to beat Polokwane City 2-1 after extra time in their quarter-final.

The comeback sent Mamelodi Sundowns into the last four, where they will face Golden Arrows. Golden Arrows booked their place in the semi-finals by beating Kaizer Chiefs 1-0 in their quarter-final.

Van Wyk joined Mamelodi Sundowns during the current transfer window, bringing to an end a two-year spell in Austria with SV Ried. The former Stellenbosch FC attacker made an immediate impact in his first competitive appearance for his new club.

However, the forward said the goal carried a deeper meaning because of its connection to Adams, who he described as an important figure at Mamelodi Sundowns. Adams was a former Bafana Bafana international.

“It feels amazing especially playing in front of this amazing crowd,” said Van Wyk on Mamelodi Sundowns TV.

“I mean, the fans showed up and supported us until the 120th minute.

“I just want to dedicate my goal to Jayden Adams because he was an important player at this club, and he continues to be an important player in this club.

“The fans can expect great football from us. Personally, I wouldn’t be here without this team. The performance that I gave was a good one, but the team performance was a great one. Also, it’s our first game but I feel like we did so well.”

Van Wyk’s contribution came during a demanding opening match for the club, with Mamelodi Sundowns requiring 120 minutes to overcome Rise and Shine. The result secured their progress in the MTN8 and gives them the opportunity to compete for a place in the final against Golden Arrows.

The South African side will now turn their attention to the league, with their next fixture scheduled for Tuesday away to TS Galaxy.

Mamelodi Sundowns will hope the momentum generated by their MTN8 comeback can carry into that match, while Van Wyk will look to build on a debut that produced both a goal and an assist.

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