Khoza credits Sundowns training work for growing centre-back partnerships

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Malibongwe Khoza says regular work with the club’s centre-backs in training has helped him build effective partnerships, after he was named Man of the Match in Wednesday’s 3-0 win over Siwelele FC.

The 22-year-old impressed at Loftus Versfeld Stadium as Sundowns kept a clean sheet and moved six points clear at the top of the table. The Brazilians have, however, played two more matches than second-placed Orlando Pirates.

Khoza began the game alongside Khulumani Ndamane in central defence before finishing beside Mothobi Mvala. The changes did not disrupt Sundowns’ defensive organisation, with Khoza playing a key role in securing the victory.

The defender has made significant progress this season, including scoring one goal, after being promoted from the DStv Diski Challenge side in 2024. His latest performance was further evidence of the confidence he has gained while taking his opportunities in the first team.

‘We push each other’

Khoza said the understanding between Sundowns’ defenders has been developed through their work on the training ground.

“About the pair, me and Ndamane, we have been working through it, training, making sure that we partner with each and every centre-back, so that we have that relationship together,” he told SuperSport TV.

“So I think it worked out very good, and I think it turned out to be a good pair. We make sure that we push each other in training.

“We make sure that we cover each other. We make sure that every guy who comes into the field, we give them the confidence to make sure that when we go inside the field, you give all, and you make sure that you keep that clean sheet.

“My teammates are very happy because they have been supporting me, we have been supporting each other as youngsters, making sure that we push each other, and make sure that we give our all.”