Latest news with #ArthurSales
IOL News
19-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
What will a CAF Champions League victory for Mamelodi Sundowns do for SA football?
LONG TERM EFFECT Mamelodi Sundowns' CAF Champions League victory could cement their status as Africa's top club, boost South African football's prestige, and secure lucrative rewards, and would go a long way to ensuring their domination of the local landscape will continue unabated. Seen here: Mamelodi Sundowns' Arthur Sales celebrates. Picture: BackpagePix It was their last game of the league season, and they had already clinched the title last week. In fact, they could probably have secured the trophy a fair bit sooner if second-placed Orlando Pirates had not had three games in hand. On Sunday, Sundowns were officially awarded their Betway Premiership title after their 2-0 win over Magesi at Loftus Versfeld Stadium , in Pretoria. Mamelodi Sundowns are the best team in South Africa by some distance, and winning their eighth league title in a row is testament to this. Mamelodi Sundowns Set Sights on CAF Champions League Glory and 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Now, Sundowns will turn their attention to the CAF Champions League as they take on Pyramids over two legs in the final of the competition. The first leg will be at Loftus on Saturday, with the return fixture a week later at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo. Should Sundowns win the final, there will be no dispute that they are the best team in Africa. It would go well with their other title, as the richest club on the continent. Sundowns will also be in action in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup next month. Not that they were struggling for cash, but Mamelodi Sundowns will earn a handy R174 million simply for playing in the competition. It seems then, the domination of Sundowns is set to continue at least for a few more years while teams like Pirates have to be content with the cup competitions on offer. Ultimately, having one team dominate like Sundowns have - it's debatable whether that's actually a good thing but the fact that Bafana Bafana are the strongest they have been in decades surely can't be just a coincidence. @Michael_Sherman IOL Sport * The views expressed are not necessarily the views of IOL or Independent Media. ** JOIN THE CONVERSATION: Send us an email with your comments, thoughts or responses to iolletters@ Letters should be a maximum of 500 words, and may be edited for length. Anonymous correspondence will not be published. Submissions should include a contact number and physical address (not for publication).
The South African
17-05-2025
- Business
- The South African
Why Brazilian star left Europe for Sundowns
Mamelodi Sundowns star Arthur Sales joined Kabo Yellow in July 2024 from SK Lommel. The Brazilian has shared his motivations and what he hopes to achieve with the club. According to Sales, joining Sundowns was a significant step in his career. He was drawn to the club's ambition and the opportunity to compete at the highest level. 'Coming to Sundowns was a big move for me. It's a club with great ambition, aiming to win titles, and I wanted to be part of that journey. 'I didn't know much about South African football at first, but after learning more, I saw it as a great opportunity to grow as a player,' Sundowns told iDiski Times . 'It's been a learning process, but I'm excited for the future and the chance to help Sundowns achieve their goals,' Sales concluded. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
IOL News
16-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Title celebrations, Top 8 fights and relegation battles in final stretch of Premiership
Mamelodi Sundowns' Arthur Sales celebrates winning the Betweay Premiership this past week. Photo: BackpagePix Image: Backpagepix The Betway Premiership season is nearing its climax with everything still to play for in the final fixtures. While Mamelodi Sundowns have wrapped up a record eighth consecutive title, they aim to finish the campaign in dominant fashion ahead of the CAF Champions League final. For others, the stakes are equally high: Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs seek strong finishes; Stellenbosch, Magesi, and Sekhukhune chase continental and Top 8 dreams; while Cape Town City, Golden Arrows, and SuperSport United are still navigating the perils of the relegation zone. Here's your complete guide to the weekend's action. SATURDAY Orlando Pirates vs TS Galaxy Venue: Orlando Stadium, Soweto Odds: Pirates 1.52 | Draw 3.90 | TS Galaxy 6.40 Prediction: Orlando Pirates 2–0 TS Galaxy Interim coach Mandla Ncikazi takes charge for the first time as Orlando Pirates host TS Galaxy. With the departure of coach Jose Riveiro now confirmed, Ncikazi, alongside Rayaan Jacobs, is tasked with steadying the ship and finishing the season positively. Riveiro, departing after a disappointing run that saw the Buccaneers miss out on three trophies, expressed confidence in the continuity of his former technical team, citing strong familiarity with the players. Pirates must now regroup and look to end their campaign with pride, starting with Saturday's fixture. TS Galaxy face a stern challenge against a team seeking redemption at home. Sekhukhune United vs Kaizer Chiefs Venue: Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane Odds: Sekhukhune 3.20 | Draw 3.10 | Chiefs 2.30 Prediction: Sekhukhune United 1–2 Kaizer Chiefs Kaizer Chiefs are riding high after ending their 10-year trophy drought with a Nedbank Cup victory over arch-rivals Orlando Pirates. However, fans are expecting the Glamour Boys to carry that momentum into the league. With only two games remaining, Chiefs must win both to secure a Top 8 finish, beginning with this tricky away encounter against Sekhukhune United. Despite the silverware, uncertainty looms over coach Nasreddine Nabi's future, with speculation of his release. A strong finish might just buy him more time. Stellenbosch FC vs SuperSport United Venue: Danie Craven Stadium, Stellenbosch Odds: Stellenbosch 1.99 | Draw 3.15 | SuperSport 4.00 Prediction: Stellenbosch 2–0 SuperSport Stellenbosch, currently fourth, are in pursuit of a top-three finish and a CAF Confederation Cup place. They host a revitalised but still struggling SuperSport United side, who sit just three points above the relegation zone. Stellies were displaced from the top three after a 3–0 defeat to champions Mamelodi Sundowns last weekend. With two matches left, they'll be pushing hard to leapfrog Sekhukhune United, who hold a one-point advantage. Polokwane City vs Cape Town City FC Venue: Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane Odds: Polokwane 2.46 | Draw 2.90 | Cape Town City 3.15 Prediction: Polokwane City 1–0 Cape Town City Polokwane City aim to solidify a Top 8 finish when they face relegation-threatened Cape Town City. Polokwane are currently seventh and have shown strong home form with 15 league victories at the Peter Mokaba Stadium. City, on the other hand, have failed to score in five of their last six games and sit at the bottom of the table. Their struggles in front of goal could cost them dearly again. Marumo Gallants vs Chippa United Venue: Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane Odds: Gallants 2.07 | Draw 3.15 | Chippa 3.70 Prediction: Draw 1–1 In a battle with Top 8 implications, 10th-placed Marumo Gallants host eighth-placed Chippa United. Gallants, traditionally associated with relegation scraps, are in superb form — three wins and two draws from their last five have ensured their safety. Chippa, meanwhile, are looking to recover from two heavy losses to Sundowns. A draw may be enough to maintain their position, but they'll be desperate for a win. Richards Bay vs Golden Arrows Venue: King Zwelithini Stadium, Umlazi Odds: Richards Bay 2.27 | Draw 2.95 | Arrows 3.45 Prediction: Draw 1–1 This KwaZulu-Natal derby has significant stakes. Richards Bay need just one more win to confirm their survival, while Golden Arrows are only three points above the relegation zone. Arrows are winless in six and under pressure to deliver, but Richards Bay's morale is high after a crucial victory over TS Galaxy. Expect a tight affair with few goals. SUNDAY Kick-off: 5:30pm | Venue: Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria Odds: Sundowns 1.29 | Draw 5.00 | Magesi 10.00 Prediction: Mamelodi Sundowns 2–0 Magesi FC Mamelodi Sundowns continue to dominate South African football after clinching a record-extending eighth consecutive DStv Premiership title last Wednesday with a 3–0 victory over Chippa United. Their focus now shifts to finishing the league on a high, with coach Miguel Cardoso urging his side to maintain top form against Magesi FC ahead of next weekend's CAF Champions League final first leg against Pyramids. A win on Sunday would see the Brazilians equal last season's 73-point mark — a testament to their consistency and dominance. With Magesi safe and Sundowns firing on all cylinders, a professional performance is expected from the champions in Pretoria.
The Citizen
16-05-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Sundowns record signing explains early struggles
'It's normal that I'm contracted to the club and it becomes public knowledge that I'm a record signing and when fans hear that, they expect me to score a certain number of goals,' said Sales. Arthur Sales of Mamelodi Sundowns arrival during the Betway Premiership 2024/25 match at FNB Stadium, in Johannesburg on 16 March 2025 ©Phakamisa Lensman/BackpagePix Mamelodi Sundowns' record signing Arthur Sales has opened up about the challenges he faced in adapting to South African football upon his arrival. The Brazilian striker endured a shaky start to life at Chloorkop but has since found his form. He has now netted eight goals in 18 Betway Premiership appearances for the club. ALSO READ: Chiefs urged to sign Zimbabwean striker Sales scored a brace in Sundowns' 3–0 victory over Chippa United on Wednesday, helping the team secure their eighth consecutive league title. The tall forward was reportedly signed for over R60 million from Belgian second-division outfit Lommel SK at the start of the season. 'It's normal that I'm contracted to the club and it becomes public knowledge that I'm a record signing and when fans hear that, they expect me to score a certain number of goals,' Sales said on Radio 2000. 'With the adaptation taking place and me not scoring goals, the criticism came but what was more important is me standing firm. Now I'm delivering but it was just a matter of time and me adapting to the league. 'What actually created the pressure after Flemming (Berg) contacted me for the project, the perceived number 9 in the country is a traditional one that sits between the centre-backs and only scores goals. 'That's what created the pressure on me because I'm not that type of a number 9, I'm a striker that plays with the ball. My goal is not only about scoring goals but also creating chances.' Sales revealed that his adjustment to life at Sundowns was made difficult by the club's demanding schedule. He also noted that both former coach Manqoba Mngqithi and his predecessor, Miguel Cardoso, have deployed him in various positions on the pitch. 'When you play for Sundowns, you have a lot of games and too many games every three days. It's difficult for the coach to understand about the position and the role the player can do,' the 22-year-old said. 'You need an adaptation period from training to the game. When you test it (combinations) in the game, it becomes difficult because there are too many people watching, the pressure is too much and it's not nice. Coach Manqoba watched me and said you're not a number 9 and we changed a little bit and one time I'm a 9, left or on the right. ALSO READ: OPINION: Sundowns have turned the Premiership into a farmer's league 'Sometimes it was behind the number 9 because he didn't have time to understand my profile. And the current coaches don't have enough time because they have to prepare for the game instead of focusing on the players. With time, I have evolved, started gelling, adapting to the demands of the game and they can see what I bring to the team.'
IOL News
16-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Four clubs, four trophies: A historic end to the PSL season
Head coach Miguel Cardoso and Arthur Sales of Mamelodi Sundowns celebrate beating Chippa United on Wednesday, and in doing so, retaining the Betway Premiership. Photo: BackpagePix Image: Backpagepix The curtain will fall on the PSL top-flight season this month, with all the domestic trophies already decided, results recorded, champions noted, and tales of heroic deeds to be recalled in years to come. The Betway Premiership, MTN8, Nedbank Cup and Carling Knockout were all won by different clubs. That's why senior football writer Mihlali Baleka profiles the four clubs that managed to get their hands on silverware this season. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Mamelodi Sundowns – Betway Premiership Sundowns secured a record-extending eighth consecutive league title, and 15th overall, after beating Chippa United 3–0 in their penultimate game on Wednesday. They lived up to their 'Bafana Ba Style' moniker, going about their business with swagger and class, breaking records along the way. Sundowns have scored 63 goals in the league this season so far – a record in the PSL-era, surpassing the previous best of 56. Coach Miguel Cardoso also deserves plaudits for getting the best out of his squad despite only taking charge late last year. Kaizer Chiefs – Nedbank Cup Chiefs ended their 10-year trophy drought by lifting the Nedbank Cup, becoming the first club in the top flight to win the country's premier knockout competition 14 times. Amakhosi reached this milestone with some breathtaking victories over their rivals, Sundowns and Orlando Pirates, in the semi-final and final, respectively. The Ke Yona Cup brought some much-needed relief to the club and its supporters, salvaging what had been a disappointing league campaign. Coach Nasreddine Nabi's side has been inconsistent in the league — they must win their next two matches to have any chance of finishing in the Top 8. Orlando Pirates – MTN8 The Sea Robbers became the first club to win the MTN8 in three successive seasons during the PSL-era, after defeating AmaZulu, Sundowns and Stellenbosch en route to the final. The Sea Robbers tried to carry that MTN8 momentum into their league campaign, but fell short, finishing runners-up to Sundowns on all three occasions. Outgoing coach Jose Riveiro will have fond memories of the MTN8, having won all three finals at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. With a new manager set to take the reins next season, they will have big shoes to fill, especially in maintaining the club's domestic cup pedigree. Magesi – Carling Knockout Dikwena tša Meetse achieved the improbable by winning the Carling Knockout at the first attempt, having only been promoted from the National First Division last season. Their triumph was historic. They defeated Pirates in the opening round before claiming victory over Sundowns in the final in Bloemfontein. Coach Clinton Larsen didn't last long enough to carry that form into the rest of the league campaign, as he was replaced by Owen Da Gama. 'RubberDoll', as Da Gama is affectionately known in football circles, has impressed in his long-awaited return to the dugout, ensuring the club is not embroiled in a relegation battle.
