Mamelodi Sundowns: How did Fawaz Basadien change everything for the Tanzanian player?

A lot can change in a year, and Fawaaz Basadien is living proof of that—he has gone from enduring tough times to experiencing joy.

Basadien joined Sundowns ahead of last season from Stellenbosch FC, but things didn't go quite as he had hoped. Playing time was hard to come by, and he ended up losing his place in the national team.

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Fawaaz Basadien speaks to the media about his life at Mamelodi Sundowns

All of that now lies in the past. This campaign he has already made 12 appearances across all competitions—more than the 11 he managed throughout the entirety of last season.

Beyond earning more playing time at club level this season, Basadien has also won back his place in the Bafana Bafana squad under head coach Pitso Mosimane. A great deal has contributed to this turnaround, and he opened up about it to the media at Chloorkop ahead of this Sunday's CAF Super Cup final against Algerian side USM Alger, the reigning Confederation Cup champions.

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"I am in a good space. Feeling good, I've been playing regularly, so I am in a good family. I think credit to my family and credit to the man above for giving me the strength and courage to overcome the situations I had last season and to be able to perform at a consistent level and to be in a better space this season. Credit to my family for getting me through those times, especially my wife and my son. If I come home to them, I always get some inspiration to do more," Basadien told media.

“So, it was a bit difficult for me to get started regarding regular game time. From last season until now, I committed myself to improve in those things I was lacking in last season and to improve humble and believe I can achieve things. It was important for me to have a strong mindset and keep believing that eventually my chance will come.”

Hazem Mlhem |

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Hazem Mlhem est un rédacteur sportif expérimenté, animé par une passion pour le football africain.

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