Dan Malesela believes constant activity is the secret to success for the defending champions. The former captain shared his insights with kickoff.com. He argues that a busy schedule is actually a significant competitive advantage.
Mamelodi Sundowns FC currently sit second on the league table. They trail Orlando Pirates by just one point. Crucially, Sundowns have a game in hand over the Buccaneers, who have played 22 matches.
The two sides have different momentum levels heading into the next fixtures. Sundowns face Chippa United this Friday at Loftus Versfeld. A win would allow them to leapfrog their rivals and reclaim the top spot.
The Sharpness Factor
Malesela highlights that Sundowns players never lose their rhythm. Many squad members, such as Ronwen Williams and Teboho Mokoena, remain active during FIFA breaks. The team also balances high-intensity matches in the CAF Champions League.
There is often talk regarding player fatigue in South African football. Malesela views this differently. He notes that fatigue is usually a complaint reserved for teams that are losing. Winning teams tend to focus on their momentum and sharpness instead.
High Stakes at Loftus
Chippa United face a significant challenge in Pretoria. They sit 13th in the standings with 20 points from 22 games. Malesela suggests the physical and mental readiness of the Sundowns squad will be difficult to match.
This “never-stop” approach allows players to stay match-fit throughout the year. It removes the need for a “re-entry” period after international breaks. While rivals might struggle with rustiness, Sundowns maintain a peak performance level.
The ability to remain competitive across multiple competitions keeps the squad sharp. According to Malesela, this constant involvement in competitive football is what keeps them ahead of the rest of the league.
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