Mamelodi Sundowns claimed the MTN8 crown on Saturday night with a 2-0 victory over Orlando Pirates at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, handing Thabo Cele another memorable moment since joining the Brazilians.
Cele was introduced in the second half as Miguel Cardoso’s side secured the trophy, adding to his growing collection since joining the Brazilians following his exit from Amakhosi.
His arrival at Sundowns came after a frustrating period at Chiefs, where he was reportedly informed by head coach Fernando da Cruz that he was surplus to requirements because of competition in midfield.
The midfielder was subsequently left training individually before reaching a mutual agreement to terminate his contract, bringing his spell at Naturena to an end.
However, Sundowns wasted little time in securing his services, offering him an opportunity to revive his career at a club with a strong winning culture.
Reflecting on his journey after Saturday’s final, Cele admitted that the experience had tested him but insisted that remaining focused on the future was crucial to overcoming the difficult period.
“For me, football is life. It has been a difficult journey, but one had to overcome,” Cele told the media after the match.
“Going through what I went through to be here, it has been the same thing: pushing myself and focusing on what is coming next. For me, it was about being at a club like Sundowns, and being here today, I’m so grateful.”
The midfielder also expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to win silverware so early in his Sundowns career, describing the experience as a blessing.
“As I said, it is a blessing because it is not common. Having just joined the club recently and won two trophies, it is major for me and for us, especially the new players who are coming in,” he added.
“We come with the ambition to help the club continue to elevate. So, it is a blessing.”