Mamelodi Sundowns’ star defender Mothobi Mvala has opened up on the club’s long-standing quest for a second CAF Champions League title, revealing just how much the continental trophy means to him and the team.
The 31-year-old defender reflected on past heartbreaks and the lessons that have come from repeatedly falling just short in Africa’s premier club competition.
For Sundowns, the CAF Champions League has often been a tournament of near misses. Mvala admitted that several campaigns have ended in heartbreak, with the club coming close only to lose in the final moments.
MOTHOBI MVALA: ‘IT’S A TROPHY WE HAVE BEEN CHASING’
“It would mean a lot because this is a trophy we’ve been chasing, and then we’ve lost it in the last minute so many times,” Mvala said on Mamelodi Sundowns TV. “It would mean a lot because this is a trophy we’ve been chasing, and then we’ve lost it in the last minute so many times,” Mvala added.
Mvala believes that the disappointments have only strengthened the team’s resolve. He also highlighted the role of the fans in Sundowns’ journey.
The Bafana Bafana international acknowledged the Kabo Yellow nation’s unwavering support through years of frustration and near misses and promised that the current squad is determined to reward them.
Experience, Mvala added, is key in a tournament like the CAF Champions League. He believes the current crop of Sundowns players now has the know-how to finally lift the trophy.
“We have come so close on several times. The heartbreaks harden us. We dominate, and then just give it away at the end. Slowly, I feel we’re getting closer to winning it for me and the club,” Mvala explained.
“Every season, we chase it. Every season, we try to win it, and I hope this season is the one that gives our supporters that joy,” he said.
“Sometimes you need experience in a tournament. Now, the players must be the ones to put their hands on the trophy. I believe it will come,” he concluded
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