Mamelodi Sundowns Complete Signing of Bafana Bafana Star Despite Links With PSL Rivals
- Mamelodi Sundowns officially confirmed the signing of Bafana Bafana right-back Thabang Matuludi from Polokwane City
- The SA defender becomes the seventh signing of the transfer window for the Brazilians, joining several other recruits
- The 27-year-old made his rise from grassroots football in Limpopo to international recognition with Bafana Bafana
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Mamelodi Sundowns have confirmed the signing of right-back Thabang Matuludi from Polokwane City, bringing the Bafana Bafana international to Chloorkop following days of transfer speculation.
The club announced on their official channels, stating: "Mamelodi Sundowns are excited to welcome Thabang Matuludi to the Masandawana family! Yellow Nation, let's welcome him in the comments."
Matuludi becomes the club's seventh signing of the transfer window, joining Antonio van Wyk, Cassius Mailula, Katlego Ntsabeleng (whose loan was made permanent), Siyanda Ndlovu, Deano Van Rooyen and Thabo Cele.
From Limpopo grassroots to Sundowns
The 27-year-old's path to one of South Africa's biggest clubs is a story of steady progression through the football pyramid. Born on 14 January 1999 in Dennilton, Limpopo, Matuludi began playing at Kgahlanamorulana Secondary School in the Sekhukhune District. He originally operated as a winger before transitioning into a fullback role while playing for his teacher's club in Jane Furse.
His early senior career was spent in the ABC Motsepe League with amateur clubs King Born and The Dolphins. Polokwane City identified his potential in 2021 and signed him, marking the start of a rapid rise through the professional game.
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At Rise and Shine, Matuludi grew into one of the division's most reliable defenders and played a key role in the club's promotion to the Betway Premiership ahead of the 2023/24 season.
Bafana Bafana recognition seals Sundowns interest
His performances in the top flight drew national attention. His defensive solidity, attacking runs and work rate made him a consistent presence in the Betway Premiership, and he eventually received his first senior international call-up for the 2024 COSAFA Cup.
Matuludi made his Bafana Bafana debut against Mozambique and featured in every minute of that tournament. National team coach Hugo Broos continued to include him in his plans, calling him up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and later naming him in the squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The move to Sundowns represents the latest and most significant step in what has been a remarkable journey from grassroots football in Limpopo to the summit of the South African domestic game.
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Source: Briefly News
