Mdunyelwa hopes Buffalo City memories can lift Sundowns against Chippa

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Zuko Mdunyelwa hopes the memory of winning the Betway Premiership at Buffalo City will help inspire the club when they face Chippa United on Saturday.

Sundowns secured the title at the same venue in May 2025 after beating the Chilli Boys convincingly. They return to Buffalo City having lost their championship to Orlando Pirates last season, but are aiming to continue their strong start to the current campaign.

Mdunyelwa believes the previous celebrations can provide extra motivation, while stressing that Sundowns cannot afford to underestimate a Chippa side still searching for their first victory of the season.

“Different teams attack in certain ways to try and expose us,” he said. “We also understand that the field we are going to be playing on is a field where we wrapped up the league title and it’s important for us to create more good memories there.”

Chippa have struggled to collect points under Truter and remain without a win this season. Despite their difficult position, Mdunyelwa does not expect them to abandon their defensive approach out of desperation.

The match will also offer Mdunyelwa another opportunity to establish himself in the Sundowns team. The right-back has been given more playing time, particularly since Khuliso Mudau suffered a long-term injury.

He said players at Sundowns must remain prepared to take advantage when their chances arrive.

“It is important to be mentally strong and to wait for your opportunity,” Mdunyelwa said. “You need to listen to the coaches so that you can understand what is expected from you, and I think I’ve been trying my utmost best to be mentally strong enough to fight.”

Chippa attracted a full house at Buffalo City last weekend when they hosted newcomers Milford. Mdunyelwa expects Sundowns to receive strong support from their own fans on Saturday.

Many of those supporters were present when the club celebrated winning the league at the venue two years ago, and the defender hopes they will return in large numbers as Sundowns seek another positive result against Chippa United.