Fawaaz Basadien determined to keep improving after Mamelodi Sundowns breakthrough

Fawaaz Basadien is determined to build on his impressive resurgence at Mamelodi Sundowns after consistency and belief helped him fight his way back into contention.

The 29-year-old South African has already made six appearances across all competitions this season, more than half of the 11 matches he managed throughout the entirety of the previous campaign. His increased involvement marks a significant turnaround for a player whose early spell at Sundowns threatened to derail his progress.

Basadien joined the South African giants three seasons ago from Stellenbosch, where he established himself as captain and one of the club’s standout performers. However, opportunities proved difficult to come by at Sundowns, with Aubrey Modiba firmly ahead of him in the pecking order.

That lack of playing time eventually affected his international prospects. Basadien lost his place in the Bafana Bafana setup and subsequently missed out on both the Africa Cup of Nations and World Cup squads.

Reports even suggested that he was considering a loan move in search of regular football. Instead, the defender remained patient and continued working for another opportunity.

“I think it’s just a matter of consistency,” said Basadien, whose recent performances have earned him a place in the Bafana Bafana preliminary squad for upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Guinea and Eritrea, as well as a friendly against Egypt.

“The belief I showed during the time I was waiting didn’t initially yield the start I wanted. But keeping that belief and a positive mindset is what kept me going. When I got the chance, I grabbed it with both hands. Now, it’s about maintaining and raising that level.”

Sundowns setting the pace

Basadien’s revival has coincided with Sundowns making an excellent start to their league campaign.

The club have won five and drawn one of their opening matches, collecting 16 points to move three points clear of Orlando Pirates, who have a game in hand.

Although the results have been impressive, Sundowns have not always been completely convincing defensively. Their vulnerability at the back has contributed to tense finishes, but Basadien believes their mentality has helped them navigate difficult moments.

“One of our main strengths as a team is grinding out results,” Basadien noted. “We keep a positive mindset and never give up, regardless of the scoreline or pressure. We always know we’ll create a chance, and we just have to take it.”

Siwelele await at Loftus

The next test comes quickly when Sundowns host Siwelele at Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday night, with kick-off scheduled for 7:30pm.

Siwelele enter the contest following a difficult spell that resulted in the departure of head coach Lehlohonolo Seema and assistant William Jackson. Godfrey Mosoetsa has since been placed in temporary charge.

The coaching change could make the visitors an unpredictable opponent, but Basadien insists Sundowns cannot afford to become distracted by developments within their opponents’ camp.

“The incoming coach might keep some of the structure the players are used to,” he said. “What’s most important for us is to focus on ourselves and stick to what we want to achieve.”