Zuko Mdunyelwa hopes Buffalo City memories inspire Sundowns

The Brazilians were crowned champions in May 2025 at the same venue after a convincing victory over the Chilli Boys, but now return having surrendered their championship to Orlando Pirates last season.

Mdunyelwa believes those celebrations can provide motivation but has warned against underestimating a struggling Chippa side as Sundowns look to maintain their strong start to the campaign. 

"Different teams attack in certain ways to try and expose us. We also understand that the field we are going to be playing on is a field where we wrapped up the league title and it's important for us to create more good memories there."

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Under Truter, Chippa have been battling to pick up points and are searching for their first win of the season. Mdunyelwa, however, doesn’t believe they will abandon their defensive tactic out of desperation. 

Individually, the right back has been getting more minutes on the pitch especially with Khuliso Mudau out with a long-term injury.

Mdunyelwa says it’s all about grabbing opportunities at Sundowns.

"It is important to be mentally strong and to wait for your opportunity. You need to listen to the coaches so that you can understand what is expected from you, and I think I've been trying my utmost best to be mentally strong enough to fight."

Chippa United had a full house at the same venue last weekend when they hosted rookies Milford, and Mdunyelwa expects Sundowns supporters who were also part of the league celebrations two years ago to come in their numbers.