Mothobi Mvala makes emotional Sundowns return after year-long injury absence

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Mothobi Mvala says he becomes emotional when reflecting on the difficult journey that led to his return from a persistent injury.

The veteran missed most of last season but completed his first 90 minutes in more than a year during Sundowns’ 1-0 Carling Knockout Cup victory over Marumo Gallants during the week.

Mvala has made three appearances in all competitions this season. His other two outings came in the Betway Premiership against Siwelele and Richards Bay, with coach Miguel Cardoso bringing him on as a substitute.

His return to full fitness follows several challenging months on the sidelines, during which he received support from his family, team-mates, coaches and the Sundowns management.

“It was not an easy journey, and it was psychologically challenging,” Mvala said as Sundowns prepared to face Durban City in the Betway Premiership at Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg on Saturday night (8.15pm).

“My teammates and the technical staff really helped me. I just kept on pushing myself in the gym, following the recovery programme and having a positive mind with the hope that I will be back on the field again and it has happened.

“It was not an easy journey, but it is part of football, and these things happen. I don’t know how I made it, and I thank God and the people at the club who helped me.

“Looking at things that I went through, I get emotional when I talk about it.”

Mvala said returning to competitive football had given him a feeling he had been waiting for over a long period.

“It feels great to be back on the field; this is something I have been waiting for for a long time. The coach has given me the opportunity to play again, and I grabbed it with both hands.”

He partnered Malibongwe Khoza in central defence against Marumo Gallants and helped Ricardo Goss keep a clean sheet as Sundowns secured three points.

“I am happy that the team did well and we got three points and a clean sheet in our last Marumo Gallants game. It is good to be back on the field and being with the guys; that is what gives me joy, and I am grateful.

“It was tough, but as the game progressed, I got my confidence back, and guys like Malibongwe Khoza helped me a lot because he is a good leader.”

Sundowns now return to league action against Durban City, managed by Eric Tinkler. Mvala expects a demanding contest against a side he believes possesses considerable experience.

“It is going to be a tough game; they are a team that have guys with experience like Gaston Sirino and Haashim Domingo.

“It is not going to be an easy game, and they will be motivated that they have qualified for the group stages of the Confederations Cup.”