Mamelodi Sundowns striker Cassius Mailula has revealed the senior players that helped him adjust and settle in very well after he was promoted to the first team in the current season.
Mailula hit the ground running in the DStv Premiership in his second match, against Martizburg United on 25 October 2022. The 21-year-old bagged a brace as Sundowns ran riot winning with a heavy 5-0 scoreline.
Since then, Mailula has never looked back. The Ga-Molepo born goalscoring machine has been in an impressive form in front of goal. Mailula has scored 14 goals and provided four assists in 24 matches in all competitions so far this season.
The good form made it difficult for the star to be overlooked in the national team by coach Hugo Broos for back-to-back AFCON qualifiers against Liberia last month.
THE SENIOR PLAYERS THAT HELPED MAILULA SETTLE IN VERY WELL
According to Mailula, the duo of Themba Zwane and Bongani Zungu guided him in every step of the way. Their words of encouragement pushed him to work extra hard.
“Initially it was overwhelming, but the senior players kept supporting me. Themba Zwane and Bongani Zungu kept reminding me that it is okay to make mistakes because they provide learning curves in order to improve one’s game,” said Mailula
“Hearing those words from seasoned professionals motivated me to work towards finding my rhythm and giving me the opportunity to really enjoy the game.
“Two years ago, my immediate objectives were to get promoted to the senior team and and play CAF Champions League.
MAILULA REFLECTS ON HIS SEASON
Mailula further reflected on his season, stating he didn’t expect it to turn out the way it did.
“I did not expect to play regularly and score as many goals as I have in my first season with the senior team.
“I am so grateful for this milestone [scoring goals]. It makes me think about everything that I have been through over the past few months.
“Through hard work, determination and by God’s grace, I am living that dream. Like any other footballer, I aspire to play for a big team in Europe one day,” he added.
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