Katlego Ntsabeleng Mamelodi Sundowns challenged by Khaya Mfecane of Chippa United during the Betway Premiership match at Loftus Stadium on Friday night.
Image: BackpagePix
Mamelodi Sundowns (2) 4
Chippa United (1) 1
Mamelodi Sundowns attacker Katlego Ntsabeleng believes the defending champions are firmly on course to retain their Betway Premiership crown following a commanding 4-1 victory over Chippa United on Friday night.
Masandawana returned to the top of the standings with a clinical display at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, underlining their intent in what is shaping up to be a tightly contested title race against Orlando Pirates.
Goals from Marcelo Allende and Iqraam Rayners put the hosts in control before halftime, with Ntsabeleng playing a key role in the second, providing a composed assist.
Although Sinoxolo Kwayiba pulled one back for the visitors, further strikes from Tashreeq Matthews and Brayan Leon Muniz sealed a dominant win.
Speaking after the match, Ntsabeleng, who’s on loan from Major League Soccer side FC Dallas, reflected on both his individual progress and the team’s growing confidence.
“It means a lot to get this award. First of all, I would like to thank the Almighty for just giving me the opportunity to express the talent he’s given me,” he said.
The midfielder acknowledged the demands that come with representing Sundowns, but believes he is beginning to find his rhythm within the squad.
“We all know playing for Mamelodi Sundowns, it comes with pressure, and when you get a chance you have to take it, and I think I’m doing my best at that.
“I think I started a bit slow, but as I got used to the team everything went well.”
Ntsabeleng credited the team’s training ground work for their attacking cohesion, pointing to improved movement and decision-making in the final third.
“I think it’s the things we work on in training… creating space for each other, complementary runs — as you can see it’s all coming together now.”
With supporters turning out in numbers, the 22-year-old also emphasised the importance of fan backing during the run-in.
“It means a lot for the fans to come out in numbers. We need them, it’s a title race and it’s a difficult one this year.”
“But, I believe we gonna come out on top if we keep playing the way we are.”
With momentum building, Sundowns appear to be peaking at the right time — and if Ntsabeleng’s belief is anything to go by, the champions are not ready to relinquish their crown just yet.