Mailula highlights lessons grasped in first season in the top-flight
In what was his breakthrough season, Mamelodi Sundowns striker Cassius Mailula has highlighted the lessons he grasped in the top-flight.
Mailula made his debut when Sundowns defeated Chippa United with a 1-0 scoreline on 2 September last year.
His profile swiftly soared as he was banging goals constantly in the absence of Peter Shalulile who was nursing injury. The Namibian striker was only going to make a return in January this year.
Speaking to the media during Sundowns’ league trophy celebration, Mailula’s focal point was the CAF Champions League experience.
The Ga-Molepo-born says playing for the Brazilians requires mental strength considering that they compete continentally.
He also stated that he learnt the importance of doing one’s ‘homework’ about opponents prior to the matches.
CASSIUS MAILULA HIGHLIGHTS LESSONS GRASPED IN HIS FIRST SEASON IN THE TOP-FLIGHT
“You know the demands are very high, you also go and play in Africa,” said Mailula.
“Something that I actually learnt is that at a higher level, you always have to be strong mentally. Those guys [in the CAF Champions League] are always aggressive. You need to have good decision-making.
“For me also, you need to do your homework in analysing the opponents. Know their weaknesses and strengths, so that you know what you gonna come across.
“And also because we all have our own abilities, you also go to the game, knowing that you have to do this so that you win the game.”
In 31 appearances that he collected, he scored 15 goals and provided four assists. He has been nominated for the DStv Premiership Young Player of the Season alongside SuperSport United’s Thapelo Maseko and Stellenbosch FC’s Olwethu Makhanya.
Mailula also earned his first Bafana Bafana call-up when SA took on Liberia in the AFCON qualifiers in March this year.
Meanwhile, with Hugo Broos’ men set to meet Morocco on 17 June, he has been called up in the preliminary squad.
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