Five records broken by Sundowns on their way to seventh PSL title in a row
THE undisputed dominance of Mamelodi Sundowns in the Premier Soccer League era continued after they clinched the 2023/2024 DStv Premiership title.
The Brazilians’ meteoric rise in popularity in the past 15 years has coincided with the club breaking all kinds of records, lifting their players to become some of the most decorated individuals in South African football history.
The Chloorkop-based outfit has outstripped clubs such as Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates in terms of major records over the years, and continued that trend this season.
We took a look at five records broken by Masandawana on their way to another league title …
Lucky No 14
When business tycoon Patrice Motsepe took ownership of Sundowns in 2004, the club had already established itself as one of the most entertaining sides in the land, with trophies to boot.
His impact was immediate as he lifted his first title in 2006/2007, a trend he kept up until relinquishing duties to his son, current chairman Tlhopie.
The Brazilians have enhanced their status this season, dominating the PSL era as they clinched their 14th league title, the most ever, with both Chiefs and Pirates sitting at four trophies apiece.
Seventh heaven
Sundowns have stretched the South African record for league titles in a row to seven.
With head coach Rulani Mokwena at the wheel, the Brazilians have not let go of the championship since its revamp in 2020.
Glittering Denis Onyango
Veteran Sundowns goalkeeper Denis Onyango has now claimed 11 league titles in South Africa, a record that is expected to stand for a while.
The first three of those came in the colours of SuperSport United, before winning eight with Masandawana – including seven in a row.
The Ugandan-born shot-stopper might consider himself unlucky as he initially failed to impose himself at the club, and was sent on loan to Wits when Sundowns won the league championship in the 2013/14 season.
Longest unbeaten streak
In September, Sundowns set a record for the longest unbeaten run in the Premiership as they came from behind to beat Stellenbosch at a rainsoaked Atteridgeville.
It was their 32nd unbeaten match in the league, stretching back to September 2022, when they lost 2-1 to SuperSport United. It beat the old mark of 31 league games without defeat set by Kaizer Chiefs between January and November 2005.
Invincibles loading?
Although the Brazilians have numerous other records to their name as well this season, their last priority (alongside the Nedbank Cup) is the dream of becoming the first team to claim the title of ‘Invincibles’ in the country’s history. With 19 wins and six draws this season, Sundowns have a duty to avoid defeat in their last five games of the season to claim their Invincibles status.