It's a blessing to play for Sundowns - Thabo Cele

10.10.26 FT MTN 8 Cup South Africa

Orlando Pirates

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Mamelodi Sundowns FC

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Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Thabo Cele says playing for the Brazilians is a blessing after making his debut in the MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates over the weekend.

The 29-year-old dynamo joined the African champions on a free transfer last month after he was publicly deemed surplus to requirements by Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando da Cruz.

He came off the bench for his first appearance as a Sundowns player in the 2-0 win over Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium, helping the club clinch a first domestic cup title since the 2021/22 campaign.

Cele expressed gratitude at being a part of Sundowns, describing the club as a team that's always hungry for more success, and reveals that the Downs camp was hell-bent on lifting the MTN8.

“First of all, I give thanks to the most high for this moment and opportunity. It's a blessing to be part of this team because it's a team that's always looking for more,” said the former Bafana international.

"And today [Saturday] we went into the game looking to win the final, it had been a while since we won the MTN8. So, it's a blessing to be part of this team.

Having already won two trophies, including the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup since joining Sundowns, the well-travelled player acknowledges the rare feat he has achieved in the early stages of his career at Chloorkop.

“Like I said, it's a blessing because it's not something that's common and having joined the club recently, winning two trophies already, it's major for me, it's especially major for us,” Cele added.

"The new players coming in, coming with that ambition also to help the club continue to elevate. So, it's a blessing.

With Sundowns set to shift focus to the Betway Premiership ahead of their clash against Richards Bay at Pricess Magogo Stadium on Tuesday, Cele will be itching to add to his appearance tally for the season.

Hlayisani Magoro

Editorfr, en

Football journalist from South Africa covering African football news, exclusive stories and key events while sharing insights with passionate fans of the game.

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