Midfielder Thabo Cele has had a remarkable start to life at Mamelodi Sundowns, winning two trophies in just 30 days. He was part of the Sundowns squad that beat Al Ahli Saudi to win the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup in September. Cele made his debut in Saturday's 1-0 victory over Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium. This rapid return to silverware has been a welcome reward for Cele after a challenging period in his career at Kaizer Chiefs.
Cele's arrival at Sundowns followed an unhappy end to his spell at Chiefs, where his time at the club failed to deliver the outcome he had hoped for. However, the 29-year-old has chosen to focus on what lies ahead rather than dwell on the disappointment. He views his experience as another challenge to overcome, saying that football is like life, with difficulties that must be overcome.
Cele expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to play for Sundowns, saying it's a blessing to win two trophies in such a short period. He added that having joined the club recently, winning these two trophies is very special for him and the new players coming in to help the club elevate. Cele's start at Chloorkop has offered an immediate taste of success, with Sundowns continuing to compete for domestic and continental honours.
Cele's appearance against Pirates also marked an important personal milestone, as he made his debut for the club in a final that saw Sundowns end their wait for another MTN8 title and deny their rivals a historic fifth consecutive crown. The midfielder's performance has provided an encouraging beginning to his time at Sundowns, and he will be looking to establish himself in a star-studded squad.
While two medals in such a short period provide an encouraging beginning, Cele will be looking to turn his fresh start into a sustained run of performances. For now, the midfielder can reflect on a remarkable first month at his new club — one that has already brought two trophies and renewed optimism after a difficult chapter at Chiefs.
Cele's experience at Chiefs was challenging, but he has chosen to focus on the future. He believes that overcoming difficulties is part of football and life, and he is looking forward to what lies ahead. Sundowns' continued competition for domestic and continental honours will provide Cele with opportunities to establish himself and contribute to the team's success.
As Cele looks to establish himself at Sundowns, he will be part of a team that is competing for multiple titles. With two trophies already won, Cele's first month at the club has been a successful one, and he will be looking to build on this momentum in the coming weeks and months.
Key points
- Thabo Cele has won two trophies in 30 days at Mamelodi Sundowns.
- Cele's start at Sundowns has provided an immediate taste of success.
- Cele is looking to establish himself in a star-studded Sundowns squad.
