Fawaaz Basadien: Bafana Bafana Star Explains Why He Draws Inspiration From Cristiano Ronaldo

• Mamelodi Sundowns star Fawaaz Basadien has explained why he draws inspiration from former Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo during his youth days
• The South African international has struggled for playing time since joining the Brazilians from Premier Soccer League rivals, Stellenbosch FC, in the summer
• The former Cape Town City defender's comments on looking up to Ronaldo while he was still younger sparked mixed reactions from football fans on social media

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Fawaaz Basadien has shared that he looked up to Portuguese icon Cristiano Ronaldo during his youth, admiring the way the star exemplifies professionalism and discipline both on and off the pitch.

The 29-year-old joined Masandawana from Stellenbosch FC at the start of the season in a high-profile transfer. However, his time at Chloorkop has yet to meet expectations, with the Bafana Bafana left-back featuring in just seven matches across all competitions.

Although Basadien’s position differs from that of Al Nassr’s captain, he admits he has drawn valuable lessons from Ronaldo’s approach, applying aspects of the superstar’s work ethic and mindset to his own game.

Read also

Jabu Mahlangu hits out at Tso Vilakazi and Junior Khanye over Bafana Bafana criticism

Basadien on drawing inspiration from Ronaldo

Basadien, who missed out on the final Bafana Bafana AFCON squad, gave a detailed analysis of what he has learnt from Cristiano Ronaldo.

“Observing him has shown me the value of professionalism, discipline, and the constant pursuit of growth—principles I apply to my own game every day,” Basadien told Sundowns magazine.

“At Sundowns, I’m lucky to train with top-tier teammates whose commitment, sharp thinking, and teamwork inspire me to elevate my performance both on and off the field.”

The former Stellenbosch FC left-back's explanation about drawing inspiration from the Real Madrid legendary attacker drew different opinions and reactions from fans on social media.

EL Espolon shared:

"Inspiration from a striker while you're a defender."

Mashango William Vuma reacted:

"You carry your own game watching from the bench, unlike CR7, who plays a part."

Seshuanyana Mohlala implied;

"The time to represent your team is not far off; hold on to your guards, I tell you."

Read also

Shekhinah reacts to major co-sign from Bonang Matheba: "No way"

Seoli Chacha said;

"He was supposed to be in Morocco representing his country if he didn't join Mamelodi Sundowns in the summer."

Seun_kata commented:

"As a left back, you should look up to players in your position. A left back can not learn anything from Ronaldo."

Sayi Ndlovu wrote:

"Keep working hard, opportunity must find you ready. His time is coming, trust me, he is going to take that position from Aubrey Modiba."

Lwandile Lwans added:

"Yes, Sundowns have world-class players. Check their goalkeeper is ranked number 9 in the world and currently number two in Africa. Previously, he was ranked number one in Africa. Their number Khuliso Sailor Mudau is one of the best right-backs in Africa. At the last Afcon, 90% of Sundowns players won Bronze for South Africa; it tells you everything about their players."

Sundowns skipper hits out at referee

Briefly News also reported that a Mamelodi Sundowns star has hit out at the match officials in charge of Bafana Bafana's clash against Egypt at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Read also

How the TLB was built: rise of starboy Mbekezeli Mbokazi

The South African international was not happy with the referee's decision that led to Bafana Bafana's controversial defeat against the Pharaohs.

Source: Briefly News