Matthews ready for Sundowns' Club World Cup challenge

TASHREEQ Matthews is buzzing with excitement as Mamelodi Sundowns prepare to compete in the Fifa Club World Cup in the US in the coming weeks.

- MIHLALI BALEKA

Since returning to South African football one and a half seasons ago, Matthews has worked hard to prove his worth after a challenging spell overseas. Now, he's a key figure in Sundowns' success story, helping the club secure back-to-back league titles and a place on the global stage.

The Brazilians will make their first appearance at the tournament since 2016. They are in Group F alongside Ulsan Hyundai, Borussia Dortmund and Fluminense. Matthews has extensive background knowledge of German giants Dortmund, having spent seven years in their junior ranks, despite being regularly sent out on loan. As the prospect of facing his former club looms large for the 24-year-old, he revealed how he felt before the Brazilians’ departure on Sunday afternoon.