Reigning African champions Mamelodi Sundowns will have to wait a little longer to kick off their 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign after their opening fixture against Marumo Gallants was officially postponed by the Premier Soccer League (PSL).
Originally scheduled for Saturday, 1 August 2026, the league granted the postponement following a formal request from the club, allowing Masandawana additional time to regroup after a challenging pre-season period.
A Grief-Stricken Pre-Season Tour in Austria
July proved to be an exceptionally difficult month for the Chloorkop outfit. The club’s pre-season preparations in Europe were overshadowed by tragedy following the sudden and heartbreaking passing of 26-year-old midfielder Jayden Adams. As a sign of respect, Sundowns canceled their opening friendly match against Red Bull Salzburg.
Upon returning to the pitch under head coach Miguel Cardoso, the Brazilians struggled for rhythm on tour in Austria, battling a spate of injury setbacks alongside the high-profile departure of club legend Peter Shalulile to Tanzanian giants Young Africans SC.
MAMELODI SUNDOWNS AUSTRIA PRE-SEASON RESULTS
• vs. Red Bull Salzburg: Cancelled (In memory of Jayden Adams)
• vs. Al Hilal: Lost 0-2
• vs. Hertha Berlin: Drew 1-1
• vs. MC Alger: Drew 1-1
Continental Kings Aiming to Reclaim Domestic Crown
Despite winless pre-season outings, Sundowns maintain formidable credentials as the reigning CAF Champions League titleholders, having secured their second continental star with a thrilling final victory over FAR Rabat at the close of the 2025/26 season.
However, the 2026/27 campaign carries added motivation domestically. After an unprecedented streak of eight consecutive league titles, Kabo Yellow narrowly surrendered the Betway Premiership crown to Orlando Pirates by a single point last term.
With their opening match against Marumo Gallants rescheduled, coach Cardoso’s charges gain crucial preparation time to refine their squad before stepping back into domestic action.
