Mamelodi Sundowns keep it simple while rivals roll the dice on change

Mamelodi Sundowns have gone into the last eight seasons of what is now the most dominant league era in the history of football in South Africa with questions constantly being asked about who will eventually topple them.

And just like every other season, the upcoming one will not be any different. Despite a lot of movement from their rivals in the transfer market, Sundowns’ relatively quiet incoming traffic may work in their favour.

Last season was one of the few campaigns where they were run close, and despite a slow start to the season, their finish made a massive statement as they comfortably clinched their eighth consecutive title in the end.

With their sights also set on domestic trophies and the CAF Champions League, it will be yet another season where it’s tough for the chased to knock them off their pedestal. They will head into the season once again with their cards stacked nicely for them.

Here we will unpack three key reasons why they will likely continue their dominance in the coming season.

Minimal change from last season

There has been a lot made of Orlando Pirates' many new arrivals, with a host of impressive signings making their way into the home of the former CAF Champions League winners.

Despite the excitement and the expectation that comes with all those signings, there will also be a concerning factor in terms of how long it might take for all the new arrivals to gel. Add to that the presence of a new coach in Abdeslam Ouaddou, and it's clear Pirates may need time to hit top gear.

Sundowns, by contrast, won’t need to deal with such concerns. Their return to camp will feel more like returning from an international break rather than a rebuild. That level of continuity might give them the edge and a faster start to the season compared to their rivals.

Winning can be a culture

The Brazilians have shown that winning can be a culture. Even though their consistent participation in the Champions League hasn’t yet reaped rewards in terms of silverware, they continue gaining experience playing against the continent’s best teams. That exposure has consistently given them the edge over all the other PSL teams, as the level of continental competition is simply higher.

With their recent showing at the FIFA Club World Cup earlier this year, they will come into the new season more motivated to climb the ladder even higher as they look to build another strong campaign.

Basadien could be a prized signing

Alongside Pirates, Sekhukhune United and Kaizer Chiefs have been among the busier clubs in the top flight. While Sundowns have mostly been offloading players, their links to Stellenbosch FC defender Fawaaz Basadien could turn out to be the biggest capture of the season.

The Pretoria-based outfit already has quality in every position, and bringing in Basadien would add not only experience but also leadership and versatility in a position they’ve had to rotate between Devine Lunga and Aubrey Modiba.

Both are solid players in their own right, but Basadien would offer Miguel Cardoso an all-in-one package—combining composure, leadership , consistency, and the ability to contribute both defensively and going forward.