Mamelodi Sundowns 2022-23 Season Review - A sixth straight league title

In the DSTV Premiership, Sundowns were expected to win the league. They met those aims but they arguably exceeded their ambitions in terms of their defensive record. Just 13 goals were conceded and their goal difference was an impressive +39. 

In terms of cup competitions, they would be slightly disappointed not to lift either domestic cup honour. They also lost out in the CAF Champions League semi-finals once again, their holy grail. 

There were a number of outstanding performers at Sundowns this season. Peter Shalulile finished as tied-top goalscorer in the PSL with 12 goals. Ronwen Williams kept 18 clean sheets in goal and was superb with his feet. 

Neo Maema and Teboho Mokoena both shone in central midfield this term. One unheralded player was right back Khuliso Mudau, who enjoyed remarkable consistency. Young striker Cassius Mailula also deserved a mention for nine league goals (and 15 overall).

In the DSTV Premiership, it’s hard to look past the 5-0 win against Maritzburg United in Rhulani Mokwena’s first match charge as sole head coach. Downs put up 3.40 xG and had 64% possession in the match.

A 2-0 win against Orlando Pirates was also very impressive. They had nine shots on target and 1.90 xG in a victory where they enjoyed 62% of the ball.

Without doubt, goalkeeper Ronwen Williams takes this award. It’s no easy feat to replace Denis Onyango but the former SuperSport United man excelled throughout. 

There were flashes of quality from other new signings, most notably midfielders Marcelo Allende and Sipho Mbule, but they weren’t amongst the side’s best performers. A lot more will be expected of forward Abubeker Nassir next season if he can steer clear of injuries.

In the league, there is not much to improve. Perhaps they took their foot off the gas towards the end of the season a bit and that is something to work on. 

The same happened a year earlier once they had secured the PSL title. As always, they will want to become even more ruthless against teams who play ultra defensively against them.

There are no confirmed transfer deals just yet. You can bet that Sundowns will spend big once again with Khanyisa Mayo of Cape Town City looking like a realistic target. 

There may be more outgoings than incomings. Andile Jali is set to depart in midfield and fringe players like Gift Motupa and Lesedi Kapinga may be loaned out. Sundowns also have big decisions to make over their loanees, not least the impressive Grant Margeman and experienced left back Lyle Lakay.

In conclusion, Downs were outstanding this season and played exhilarating football with lots of goals scored and very few conceded. However, until they win another CAF Champions League crown, they will feel a bit unfulfilled.