Madisha thanks his critics
MOTJEKA Madisha has had his trials and tribulations at both Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana but he is on top of his game right now.
He has become a vital cog in the heart of the defence for Sundowns. Madisha is expected to play a pivotal role when they take on Bidvest Wits in an Absa Premiership showdown at Moses Mabhida Stadium (7.30pm kick-off).
He has credited his redemption to his critics.
“Criticism worked for me.
I treated it as a wake-up call. I didn’t take it badly but I did an introspection to try and identify what I’m doing wrong. Those criticisms really helped me a lot. I would love to thank those people that were criticising me. To them I would like to say thank you for giving me a wake-up call,” Madisha explained.
He was superb for Sundowns at the weekend as they defeated Maritzburg United to be crowned Telkom Knockout champions.
But Madisha is still hungry for more.
“There’s still room for improvement in my game. I’m not there yet. I’m striving for more. I wouldn’t say I’m happy but I’m happy for the team. It is one step at a time,” he added.
Madisha was embarrassed last year at Moses Mabhida Stadium. He was substituted in the first half against Paraguay in the Nelson Mandela Challenge. He committed numerous blunders on the night so then-Bafana coach Stuart Baxter sacrificed him. A year later, he managed to redeem himself at the same stadium but in Sundowns colours.
“The last time I was at Moses Mabhida I was substituted when I was playing for Bafana Bafana and it wasn’t a nice feeling. It is great that I’ve come to the same stadium and won a cup. I told myself before the game that I don’t want to find myself in the same situation.
“I tried my level best. I’m happy that I managed to win a cup in the same stadium where I was booed and criticised. But is part of football. I’m happy that I’ve managed to bounce back,” Madisha explained.
During his time with Sundowns, the youngster has lifted a lot of trophies but without making a major contribution.
He is now maturing in his game. He is getting better with each and every game. If he stays consistent, it won’t be long before we see him returning to the national team.
“It is a great feeling to be champions. I think this is the first time I’ve contributed immensely to the club’s success. I’m happy that we won but our focus is now on the game in Tuesday against Bidvest Wits. The cup success is now history,” Madisha said.
Sundowns will be looking to cut the gap between themselves and leaders Kaizer Chiefs tonight. They are 10 points behind Amakhosi, who are at the top of the log.
Sundowns have to win tonight against Wits to get closer to Chiefs. They cannot afford to slip. It is early in the season but they can’t afford to lose if they are serious about dethroning Chiefs at the summit of the log.