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Hlompho Kekana hails Sundowns’ squad character

Hlompho Kekana believes the character in the Mamelodi Sundowns squad has been key to their run in the Caf Champions League.

As the team host Angola’s Petro de Luanda, trailing 2-1 after losing in the first leg, Kekana is confident they have the character and spirit to go on and lift the coveted title. 

“They have the personality to do that, you know, in the continent, the character is required to win the title, and I believe they’ve got that,” he said on the sidelines of the Carling Black Label Gold celebrations at Chillas Lounge in Tsakane, East Rand. 

He said the fact that they have lost four matches in all competitions so far is a “characteristic of a champion”. “I believe if they continue winning these matches here, they will also dominate in the continent,” added the former Downs captain.

He is convinced the incredible run is all down to assembling a squad based on talent and the character that suits the team. Kekana, who spent 10 years at Sundowns, says it is heartening to see new players coming and fitting so perfectly.

“It’s so nice to see the new players coming into the team continuing with the same performances. It’s a culture we created at Sundowns, and it is something that they want as a team that has brought so many trophies at this club,” the 36-year-old said.

The former Black Leopards, Bloemfontein Celtic and SuperSport midfielder, sounded particularly impressed by the free-scoring Peter Shalulile. The Namibia international has been a vital cog for Sandawana, scoring 21 goals in the domestic league. 

“I was excited to see Peter Shalulile come and do what he has done for the team, and the new players have the hunger to improve what the previous generation has achieved. 

“This is something the club should be proud of because every player wants to contribute to the team’s success. I can only say I’m proud of the team. I hope they deliver the second star,” the former Bafana Bafana star said.

Kekana was in attendance as Carling Black Label celebrated its 50th milestone in terms of award wins. Carling produced 50 real gold medals to the value of R50,000 each.

Three of the 50 gold medals were won in Tsakane last weekend. These gold medals are certified so that if the three winners wish to sell them, they can do so to convert their award into a sizable cash reward.

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