Tashreeq Matthews reaches 80-game Sundowns run but suspension threatens record

Tashreeq Matthews has made 80 consecutive appearances for Mamelodi Sundowns, but his remarkable run is now at risk of ending after he collected three bookings this season.

The winger came off the bench with 15 minutes remaining as Sundowns secured a 1-0 victory over Marumo Gallants in the Carling Knockout Last 16 on Tuesday.

That appearance extended Matthews’ sequence to 80 matches for the Tshwane club, an exceptional number for an outfield player, particularly one operating in attacking positions.

Matthews has featured in every official Sundowns match since Miguel Cardoso became head coach in December 2024. He has only missed involvement in eight games since the Portuguese manager took charge and is Cardoso’s most frequently used player.

His uninterrupted run began when he was introduced as a substitute against Kaizer Chiefs on 13 April 2025. Since then, the 18-month sequence has continued without injury, suspension or being left out of the squad.

Matthews’ consistency earned him a call-up to Bafana Bafana during the most recent FIFA dates. He has retained his place for the two fixtures against Kenya in November.

During the run, the 24-year-old has accumulated over 5000 minutes, scoring 14 goals and providing 13 assists from the wing.

He played 50 matches for the Chloorkop-based side last season, starting 38 and making 12 appearances as a substitute. Matthews has featured in all 17 of Sundowns’ matches this season.

However, his record now faces a clear threat from disciplinary rules in domestic competitions. Another booking would activate a one-match suspension and bring his consecutive appearance streak to an end.

Sundowns’ return to winning ways against Marumo Gallants ensured Matthews could celebrate reaching the latest landmark, although his next domestic caution would prevent him from extending it further.