Mamelodi Sundowns: 4 Key April Fixtures That Could Define Masandawana’s Success This Season

• Mamelodi Sundowns are closing in on a record-extending 14th DStv Premiership title
• The quarter-finals of the CAF Champions League have become a jinx stage for the side
• Rulani Mokwena wants his side to focus solely on their next game against Richards Bay

There are just two months left in the footballing season, and what a big two months it could be for Mamelodi Sundowns.

The Brazilians are still in the running for three trophies, and the month of April could be pivotal in deciding whether this season is a success for the team.

With Masandawana closing in on another league title, Sports Brief looks at four fixtures in April which could define their 2023/24 season.

The clash against Richards Bay

Sundowns are closing in on a 14th Premier League, but with 12 games left to play in the season, the trophy isn't in the bag yet.

Nedbank Cup quarter-final draw: Mamelodi Sundowns avoid Orlando Pirates and Supersport travel to Stellenbosch

Football

The Pretoria-based side next take on Richards Bay in the league, a team languishing in the relegation play-off spot.

Having opened up an 11-point lead over second-placed Stellenbosch FC, Masandawana can extend that to 14 points tonight and still have two games in hand on the closest challengers.

Stellies are also in action at the same time against Kaizer Chiefs and can't afford a slip-up if they realistically want to challenge for the title.

On paper, Sundowns may be the favourites for the game, but coach Rulani Mokwena has urged his side not to overlook the Natal Rich Boyz, Sowetan LIVE reported.

Facing Yanga in the CAF Champions League

On Friday, April 5, Mokwena's men will face Young Africans in the second leg of their CAF Champions League quarter-final tie.

The South Africans played out a 0-0 draw against the Tanzanians away from home and will be looking to finish off the job in Pretoria.

Maxim Gullit: Stellenbosch Boss Steve Barker Explains Why Club Decided Not to Sign Dutch Defender

Football

Masandawana have only won the tournament once, in 2016, and are desperate to hold the continental trophy again.

The quarter-finals have also become a bit of a jinx stage for the Brazilians, and they've been dumped out four times in the past seven seasons when they've reached the final eight.

A Nedbank Cup last-eight date

Speaking of quarter-finals, Masandawana also have reached that stage in the Nedbank Cup.

They next face a city rival when they take on the University of Pretoria on April 12.

Downs were beaten in the quarters last year by Stellenbosch, and will be looking to go further this time around. A six-time winner of the cup, Mokwena's side will be looking to make it lucky number seven in 2024.

Having already added the African Football League title to their trophy cabinets, Sundowns will be looking to bag every other trophy they are in the running for.

Why Diallo will be available for FA Cup semi-final despite red card vs Liverpool

Football

Ending April against Kaizer Chiefs

Sundowns' busy April will conclude with a crunch game against Kaizer Chiefs.

While the Amakhosi aren't in the running for the league title, they will be hoping to secure bragging rights against the reigning champions.

Sundowns have displaced Chiefs and Orlando Pirates when it comes to being the top team in the country, but the Glamour Boys could have the last laugh on April 30. The Brazilians are also unbeaten in the league this season, and Chiefs would love to be the team to snap that run.

Chiefs are hoping to end another trophyless season on a high and secure a CAF Champions League qualification spot. Interim coach Cavin Johnson is confident they can still achieve that, GOAL noted.

Sundowns dethrone Al Ahly as most valuable club

Sports Brief earlier reported how Mamelodi Sundowns were now the most valuable club on the African continent.

Jayden Adams: Steve Barker Speaks on Bafana Bafana Star’s Future Amid Mamelodi Sundowns Links

Football

The South African side dethroned Egyptian rivals Al Ahly to take the top spot on the latest rankings by Transfermarkt.

Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs also make it into the top 10, but the Amakhosi have now dropped down to seventh.