Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder, Katlego Ntsabeleng, believes that they have a good chance of retaining their Betway Premiership title following their 4-1 defeat of Chippa United at Loftus Versfeld on Friday night.
This result has put this team from Mamelodi at the top with 53 points in 22 games. It leaves Orlando Pirates with two points who have played equal games.
The Brazilians took the lead with Marcelo Allende’s goals in the first half, Sinoxolo Kwayiba scored a goal for the Chilli Boyz that gave them hope that they could get something in this game.
Downs ensured they took all three points with goals from Tashreeq Matthews and Bryan Leon in the second half.
Ntsabeleng was chosen as the best player in the game because of his contributions combining the midfielders and forwards, and creating the second goal that was put into the net by Rayners with his head.
Speaking after the game, the player on loan from the Major League Soccer team, FC Dallas, spoke about his progress and the team’s growing confidence.
“It means a lot to receive this award. First of all, I would like to thank the Almighty for giving me the opportunity to show the talent he has given me,” said Ntsabeleng.
The midfielder admitted that playing for Sundowns comes with challenges but believes that he is starting to find his footing in the team.
“We all know that playing for Mamelodi Sundowns comes with pressure, if you get an opportunity you have to take it. I think I did my best. I started slowly, but now that I’m used to the team everything is going well,” he continued.
Ntsabeleng highlighted the work they do in training as the reason for their unity when attacking, especially their getting out of spaces and making good decisions around the box.
“I think it’s the things we do in the gym, opening spaces for each other and seeing each other on the field. Everything is coming together now,” he said.
As the fans turned out in large numbers on Friday, the 22-year-old player reiterated the importance of their support in the final games of the season.
“It means a lot that the fans came out in large numbers. We need them because the competition for the title is difficult. I believe that we will come out on top if we continue to play the way we are playing,” he concluded.