Mamelodi Sundowns attacking midfielder Cassius Mailula has recalled his Masandawana first team debut he made earlier this season.
Mailula got his first run when he was brought on late in the second half in a DStv Premiership match against Chippa United in September.
He has rapidly established himself as a key member of the star-studded team and has had an impressive run in front of goal.
While Sundowns’ goal poacher Peter Shalulile was injured a few weeks ago, the 21-year-old stepped up and delivered, scoring crucial goals as a false number nine.
The red-hot Mailula has netted eight goals in nine appearances he has made in all competitions including in the Carling Black Label Cup.
Mailula, who has realised his first team dream, has admitted that he was nervous when he was about to have his first experience in the senior level.
CASSIUS MAILULA RECALLS HIS DOWNS SENIOR TEAM DEBUT
“It is the dream of every youngster in the Academy to play in the first team,” he said as per Mamelodi Sundowns Magazine edition 5.
“I felt nervous when the coach called me to warm up from the bench. We were facing a defensive minded Chippa United on the day and the score was still 0-0.
“The pressure was mounting because the team was searching for a late goal.
“Thankfully, Peter Shalulile found the back of the net and my debut ended on a winning note!”
One of Mailula’s dreams is to clinch the CAF Champions League title with the Tshwane giants.
The Ga-Molepo-born youngster has already found the back of the net twice in the preliminary round of the prestigious club competition in African football.
‘MY DREAM IS TO WIN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE’
“The plan is to work hard and impress my coaches so I can earn more game time and continue my growth as a player,” Mailula added.
“I look forward to learning as much as I can from my experienced teammates.
“As a junior from the academy, my dream is to win the league and the CAF Champions League with Mamelodi Sundowns, this is something we all aspire to achieve.”
RELATED STORY: Ex-Sundowns explains what makes Peter Shalulile exceptional
