Mothobi Mvala has opened up on the emotions of returning to action for Mamelodi Sundowns after nearly a year on the sidelines due to injury.
The versatile defender made his long-awaited comeback in Sundowns’ latest league outing, having last featured in a league match on 24 September 2025 against Golden Arrows.
For Mvala, simply stepping back onto the pitch represented a significant personal milestone after a lengthy and challenging period away from competitive football.
“Personally, it was a very important game and an emotional one for me – after so long being outside because of injury, to make my way back in the game, it was a very good feeling for me,” Mvala told Mamelodi Sundowns TV.
The 33-year-old admitted the match was far from straightforward, with the opposition looking to threaten on the counter-attack, but he was pleased with his own performance after making sure he was ready for the opportunity.
“It was not an easy game against them, relying on the counter-attacks – but I’m happy that I played well. I was prepared, I got an opportunity, and this opportunity found me ready.
“I have been waiting for it, when the coach called, the guys motivated me when I came in. Ronza [Ronwen Williams] motivated me, you know it was a very good game for me and for the team.”
His return comes at an important stage of the season for Sundowns, who are targeting a strong domestic campaign after acknowledging that they fell short of their own expectations last season.
“It’s very important to collect points at this time of the season, we know this league isn’t easy,” Mvala added.
“Last season we didn’t do the way we wanted, we have our own goals that we want to achieve as a team – one of them is to do well in the league, every game we play, get three points, scoring goals and keeping clean sheets, it’s very important to us. There’s room for improvement.”