Latest news with #R228
IOL News
2 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
COMMENT: Sundowns fall short at Club World Cup – but is it a win for South Africa?
Mamelodi Sundowns chairman Tlhopie Motsepe pictured next to the FIFA Club World Cup trophy. | Itumeleng English / Independent Newspapers Image: Itumeleng English / Independent Newspapers Mamelodi Sundowns may have exited the FIFA Club World Cup at the group stages, but their campaign in the United States did more than just make up the numbers — it made a statement. Despite falling short of the knockout rounds, their performance and presence on the global stage could be seen as a major win, not just for the club, but potentially for South African football at large. The Betway Premiership champions ended their tournament with four points from three matches — a 1-0 win over Ulsan Hyundai, a narrow 4-3 defeat to Borussia Dortmund, and a goalless draw with Fluminense. While that wasn't enough to book a place in the last 16, Sundowns walked away with their heads held high and their bank account significantly heavier. The club is set to pocket an eye-watering R228 million in prize money — the biggest single payday in their history — following their participation in the expanded 32-team Club World Cup. And for a team that has invested heavily in continental dominance, this financial return represents more than just cash — it's validation. At the heart of their competitive showing was Miguel Cardoso, the Portuguese tactician who took over from Manqoba Mngqithi seven months ago. In that time, Cardoso has implemented a modern, structured style of play that translated impressively onto the world stage. His side was bold and technically sharp against Dortmund, showed composure in the win over Ulsan, and displayed tactical discipline to hold Fluminense. While their early exit was disappointing on paper, context matters. Sundowns didn't look out of place — they looked like they belonged. And that matters in a tournament where African clubs are often seen as mere participants.
The South African
4 days ago
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates starting 11 with the eight new signings
The top-tier Betway Premiership club, the Orlando Pirates, have announced seven new signings. The names are Yanela Mbuthuma, Masindi Nemtajela, Tshepang Moremi, Nkosikhona Ndaba, Sinoxolo Kwayiba, Tshepo Mashiloane and Sihle Nduli. The Sea Robbers' announcement follows just 24 hours after confirming the arrival of the former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Sipho Mbule. Now let's have a quick look at how the eight new players will fit into coach Abdeslam Ouaddou's team next season. Why FIFA didn't invite Orlando Pirates to the Club World Cup Looking at the list, Orlando Pirates have beefed up every area except the goalkeeper and central defence roles. Orlando Pirates' announcement of Abdeslam Ouaddou as their new coach. Image: @orlandopirates/X FIFA to pay R228 million to Sundowns Below is the line-up in a 4-5-1 formation: Goalkeeper: Sipho Chaine Right back: Tshepho Mashiloane Central defender: Nkosinathi Sibisi Central defender: Mbekezeli Mbokazi Left back: Nkosikhona Ndaba Central midfielder: Sihle Nduli Central midfielder: Masindi Nemtajela Central midfielder: Sipho Mbule Attacking midfielder: Tsepang Moremi Attacking midfielder: Sinoxolo Kwayiba Striker: Yanela Mbuthuma. 'Today marks the first step of the 2025/2026 season for both the current and the new crop of players – as they undergo the first day of preseason screenings. 'After weeks of speculation and countless headlines across the football social media landscape, Orlando Pirates Football Club can officially confirm the signings of Yanela Mbuthuma (from Richards Bay), Masindi Nemtajela (Marumo Gallants), Tshepang Moremi (Amazulu), Nkosikhona Ndaba (Richards Bay), Sinoxolo Kwayiba (Chippa United), Tshepo Mashiloane (Baroka), and Sihle Nduli (Stellenbosch). 'The new crop of players will join their new teammates later this morning for Day 1 of preseason. 'The day will comprise of a series of medical and physical assessments, an essential step in ensuring every player is equipped for the rigours of the campaign ahead. Club doctors and performance staff will meticulously guide the players through baseline tests and evaluations which is vital not only for fitness tracking, but also for tailoring individual training plans. 'Following the tests – the new players will be taken through an induction process that all new players undergo. 'Transitioning to a club of Orlando Pirates' stature goes beyond the pitch. The new signings will have the opportunity to interact with some of the club legends such as Edward Motale, Lucky Lekgwathi, Happy Jele, and other legends. This coupled with a series of visits – which includes a trip to Soweto to visit a place that they will be calling home for the 2025/26 season – Orlando Stadium, the Meca of South African Football. 'While for the next two days, focus will be on integration and assessments, the real work begins next week, when head coach and his technical staff will take the reins for the formal start of the football side of preseason. 'Make sure you continue to follow as well as our social media platforms where we will introduce each and every new signing to the Ghost ahead of the start of the season.' 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.
