Hlompho Kekana: Mamelodi Sundowns must show character to overcome rare 'slump'

Former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Hlompho Kekana believes the challenges currently facing his former club represent a defining test of character, one the squad must overcome if they are to regain their consistency and edge.

Following a demanding 2024/25 campaign that included participation at the Fifa Club World Cup and a run to the Caf Champions League final, Sundowns have endured an uneven domestic start, with performances and results falling below the standards they have set in recent seasons.

Long regarded as the benchmark for consistency and ruthlessness in South African football, the Brazilians have seen those qualities come under increasing scrutiny. Despite missing out on both the Carling Knockout and MTN8 titles, the Chloorkop-based outfit remain firmly in contention for the remaining silverware, including the prized Champions League crown and the league.

Their Nedbank Cup Last 32 clash against lower-ranked Gomora United, set for Wednesday at Loftus Versfeld  (kick-off 7pm), presents an opportunity to restore confidence and momentum.

Coming off a narrow 2–1 defeat to Al Hilal in the Champions League, Sundowns will be keen to find rhythm again, though the unpredictable nature of knockout football leaves little room for complacency.

Kekana views the current period of challenges as a defining moment for the squad.

“Moments like that reveal a lot of character and show how you bounce back in difficult times, because once you come out of that hole, you do not want to go back again,” Kekana said, on the Pitchside Podcast. “I like it when we are under pressure and on the edge because it builds character.”

A former club captain and a key figure during one of the most successful eras in Sundowns’ history, Kekana also acknowledged concerns around the team’s recent lack of fluency and consistency, stressing the importance of the upcoming cup fixture.

Since winning the Nedbank Cup title in the 2021/22 season, Sundowns have only managed to reach the final of this competition in the 2023/24 season, losing out to Orlando Pirates by 2-1

“It’s another important fixture for the club. We all know that on so many occasions we didn’t win this trophy, and a cup game is different from any other match in a season.”

Addressing the frustration expressed by sections of the fanbase, Kekana said he understands the emotions, given the high standards Sundowns have established over the years.

“It’s difficult, but at the same time there should be some positives that we see with the group. There is no football without emotions, and if you look at the fans and how they react, it is purely because they are very passionate about football.”

Looking beyond the Gomora United encounter, Kekana highlighted the importance of Sundowns’ remaining Champions League group fixtures against MC Alger and Saint-Eloi Lupopo, insisting the team is still well placed to turn its season around.

“It’s six points Mamelodi Sundowns can easily take and go to the knockout stages. Once the team can pick up the six points and go to the second round, they will be stronger together as a group.”