Mothobi Mvala emotional after completing Sundowns comeback

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Mothobi Mvala says he becomes emotional when reflecting on the injury battle that kept him out for most of last season.

The 31-year-old returned to the starting line-up for the first time in more than a year as Sundowns defeated Marumo Gallants 1-0 in the Carling Knockout Cup during the week.

It was Mvala’s first 90-minute appearance since his lengthy absence. He has made three appearances in all competitions this season, with his other two outings coming as a substitute against Siwelele and Richards Bay in the league, after being introduced by coach Miguel Cardoso.

Mvala said the months away from football had been difficult, but credited his family, team-mates, coaches and the Sundowns management with helping him through the recovery process.

“It was not an easy journey, and it was psychologically challenging,” he said as Sundowns prepared to face Durban City in their Betway Premiership match 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 brought him a sense of happiness after such a long period on the sidelines.

“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.”

Against Marumo Gallants, he partnered Malibongwe Khoza in central defence and helped Ricardo Goss preserve 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. Mvala expects a demanding fixture against Eric Tinkler’s side, who have players with considerable experience, including Gaston Sirino and Haashim Domingo.

“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.”