Tashreeq Matthews closes in on 80-game Mamelodi Sundowns milestone

Tashreeq Matthews is set to reach 80 consecutive appearances for Mamelodi Sundowns in the next two matches, but the winger’s run is under threat because of his disciplinary record.

Matthews has featured in 78 successive games for the Tshwane club, putting him on the trail of the longest sequence of consecutive appearances by an outfield player at a South African club.

The 25-year-old has played in every official Sundowns match since coming on as a substitute against Kaizer Chiefs on 13 April 2025. He has remained available throughout that period, avoiding both suspension and injury.

His uninterrupted spell has lasted 18 months and earned him a Bafana Bafana call-up during the most recent FIFA dates. Across the run, Matthews has played more than 5,000 minutes, scoring 13 goals and recording the same number of assists.

He appeared in 50 matches for Sundowns last season, starting 38 and coming off the bench in 12. The winger has also played in all 15 of the club’s matches this campaign.

His next opportunity to extend the sequence comes against Wiliete Sport Clube de Benguela on Friday in the second leg of the CAF Champions League second qualifying round. A further appearance in Tuesday’s Carling KnockOut Cup would take Matthews to 80 consecutive games.

Booking could end appearance run

Matthews has already collected three bookings this season, leaving him one caution away from a domestic suspension.

A further yellow card in any domestic competition match would result in a one-game ban and bring his consecutive appearance record to an end.

Sundowns’ next domestic fixtures after the two upcoming matches are against Marumo and Durban City. Photo: Darren Stewart/Gallo Images