Aubrey Modiba: Mamelodi Sundowns determined to end domestic cup drought

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Aubrey Modiba says the club must improve in domestic cup competitions after falling short in recent seasons, with the team targeting a stronger MTN8 campaign this season.

The Brazilians have not won a domestic cup since 2022, when they beat Marumo Gallants in the Nedbank Cup final at Royal Bafokeng Stadium.

Since that success, Mamelodi Sundowns have continued to reach major domestic finals but have been unable to add another trophy to their collection. They lost the 2023 MTN8 final and the 2024 Nedbank Cup final to Orlando Pirates.

Modiba acknowledges that Sundowns’ recent record in local cup competitions is a subject of discussion within the club. He says the players understand that expectations remain high whenever they represent Sundowns, regardless of the type of match.

“Yeah, we are aware of that, not winning competitions, especially local competitions, we do have those conversations,” said Modiba.

“Supporters, we know when you sign up for Sundowns, you already know you’re expected to win every game, even a friendly game.

“So we know very well they want more. They always want more and as players we want more. Everyone at Sundowns wants more.

“So we are aware and hopefully we can set a tone this season with MTN8. We know it’s not going to be easy. Pirates have won it four times now in a row.

“It shows they really take it seriously. They push and for us it’s just to match that and make sure we try and win it.

“But first hurdle, Polokwane City, which we have to overcome.”

The MTN8 therefore represents Sundowns’ first opportunity to address their domestic cup disappointment and establish the tone Modiba believes the club needs this season.

Their immediate challenge is Polokwane City, who stand between Sundowns and progress in the competition. Modiba said the team was aware that the route to the trophy would not be straightforward, particularly with Orlando Pirates having dominated the MTN8 in recent seasons.

Sundowns’ defeats by Pirates in the 2023 MTN8 and 2024 Nedbank Cup finals underline the gap they must close in the knockout competitions. Although they have continued to compete at the latter stages, their last domestic cup triumph remains the 2022 Nedbank Cup victory over Marumo Gallants.

Modiba says that history has strengthened the squad’s desire to deliver more success for the club and its supporters. The defender also recognises that Sundowns’ reputation creates an expectation of winning every match, including friendlies, and that the pressure applies particularly strongly in local competitions.

The club’s stated objective is now clear: overcome Polokwane City in the MTN8 and begin the season with a result that can signal a renewed challenge for domestic cup honours.