Mamelodi Sundowns climbed to the top of the Betway Premiership standings following their recent victory over Orbit College. Among the standout performers was former Krugersdorp High School learner and Sundowns wingback Thato Sibiya, who was named Man of the Match.

Sibiya made his senior professional debut against Orbit, playing the full 90 minutes for the Pretoria-based side. He impressed both supporters and head coach Miguel Cardoso with a composed and disciplined display. Sundowns secured the win through goals from Arthur Sales and Brayan Leon, but it was Sibiya’s strong defensive performance that earned him individual honours.

The young defender previously featured in the South African U20 squad that went on to win the U20 Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in history. He began his journey at the Mamelodi Sundowns Football Academy, playing as a left wingback before steadily progressing through the ranks.

In April 2023, Sibiya received his first national team call-up, representing South Africa at the U17 level during the Afcon tournament in Algeria. He later formed part of the U20 squad that not only claimed their maiden continental title but also reached their first final in nearly two decades. The team returned to a hero’s welcome on May 20, with Sibiya among those celebrated.

The match against Orbit College came at a crucial point as the season reached its halfway mark. Sibiya played with confidence and maturity, contributing defensively and registering an assist before walking away with the Player of the Match award.

Cardoso praised Sibiya’s decision-making and composure, noting that it was not just youthful enthusiasm that stood out, but his maturity despite having recently finished high school.

“His timing, positional awareness and execution reinforced the idea that the Sundowns reserve is not merely backup for injuries or suspensions, but a true extension of the first team,” Cardoso said.