Mailula return gives Sundowns a fresh attacking spark, says Kekana

Cassius Mailula has made an immediate impact since returning to Mamelodi Sundowns, with defender Grant Kekana backing the striker to score regularly after finding the net twice in his first three appearances.

Mailula returned to Sundowns after a difficult spell abroad following his 2023 move to Toronto FC in Major League Soccer. However, his early performances suggest he has quickly rediscovered the form that made him one of the club’s most exciting players before his departure.

The 24-year-old scored the decisive goal as Sundowns eliminated Polokwane City in the MTN8 quarter-finals, securing their place in the semi-finals. He then came off the bench to score against Kaizer Chiefs in the Betway Premiership at the weekend, helping Sundowns claim a valuable point away from home.

His influence has been immediate despite starting all three matches from the bench this season, and Kekana believes the forward’s return could bring further celebrations for the South African champions.

Speaking to the media at a press conference at Chloorkop before Wednesday’s Betway Premiership meeting with Marumo Gallants at Loftus Stadium, Kekana said Mailula had been welcomed back by a squad that remains largely familiar to him.

The defender, who is known for enjoying choreographed goal celebrations, also expressed his happiness at seeing Mailula regain his confidence. The striker is widely known by the nickname ‘Cash’.

“Obviously a good addition for us. We’ve always loved cash, he’s always done the the business for us and we are happy that he is scoring again. His confidence is coming back and it wasn’t difficult for him to gel when he was here, most of us are still here.

“Quality player and we know that he is going to be banging a lot of goals this season. We just need to make sure his confidence is back and he keeps striking for us. We are happy with ‘Cash’.”

Mailula’s first spell at Sundowns established him as a dangerous attacking player, and his latest goals have prompted renewed excitement among supporters and team-mates. Kekana believes the forward’s return to form could become an important feature of Sundowns’ campaign.

The striker’s performances have also strengthened his case to be included in the starting XI against Marumo Gallants. He has appeared as a substitute in each of Sundowns’ three matches this season, but his decisive contributions in the MTN8 and Betway Premiership have given the coaching staff a strong reason to consider promoting him to the starting line-up.

Sundowns will now look to build on their unbeaten start against Gallants, with Mailula hoping to continue his productive return and provide more goals for the club.