Mailula makes instant impact after return to Mamelodi Sundowns

Cassius Mailula has made a decisive start to his second spell at Mamelodi Sundowns, scoring from the bench in two of the club’s first three matches since returning from an unsettled period abroad.

The forward came on to score the equaliser in Sundowns’ 1-1 draw with Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Friday, earning his side a point in the Betway Premiership.

It was the second time in three matches that Mailula had rescued the Tshwane club since his return. In last weekend’s MTN8 tie against Polokwane City, he also appeared as a substitute and scored the winning goal on his second debut for Sundowns.

That result sent the club through to the semi-finals, where they will face Golden Arrows.

Mailula’s impact in both games has offered an early indication of what he could provide after returning to familiar surroundings. It has also served as a reminder to defenders in the Premier Soccer League of the threat he posed during his first spell with Sundowns.

The player, widely known as ‘Cash’, left for Canadian club Toronto FC in 2023 after winning the Betway Premiership young player of the year award. At that stage of his career, a move abroad appeared to be the natural next step, with Major League Soccer becoming an increasingly attractive destination for young South African players.

However, Mailula’s progress did not develop as expected in Canada. He subsequently spent time on loan at Wydad Casablanca in Morocco and Kortrijk in Belgium, enduring a difficult few years away from Sundowns.

His return has now given head coach Miguel Cardoso another attacking option following the departure of Peter Shalulile. Mailula’s contribution has come at a useful time for Sundowns, particularly with Iqraam Rayners not currently at his best.

Although he has only made an impact as a substitute so far, Mailula has already scored twice since coming back. His decisive appearances against Polokwane City and Kaizer Chiefs suggest he could become a significant figure for Sundowns as the season progresses.

Mailula and Brayan Leon could emerge as the club’s leading attacking options as Sundowns seek to reclaim the Betway Premiership title and defend their CAF Champions League trophy.

For Mailula, the return home has begun with two important goals and renewed evidence that he can still influence major matches for the club where he first made his name.