Rising Mamelodi Sundowns star Cassius Mailula has revealed his utmost ambition following his meteoric rise this season.
The break-out Mamelodi Sundowns forward has scored 16 goals across all competitions, sparking debate over whether he was ready for Europe.
With two of his dreams already achieved, he has revealed the next big thing he wants to accomplish in his career.
“Two years ago, my immediate objectives were to get promoted to the senior team and play CAF Champions League. Through hard work, determination and God’s grace, I am living that dream,” Cassius Mailula told Sundowns’ Magazine.
His form earned him a national team call-up, where he also featured as a substitute when Bafana Bafana hosted Liberia in the AFCON qualifier.
He hopes to continue his form to ensure he gets a ticket to Ivory Coast, where the AFCON will be hosted next year in January.
While at it, the 21-year-old hopes to fulfil his other dream.
“Like any other footballer, I aspire to play for a big team in Europe one day,” Mailula, a die-hard Chelsea fan, added.
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The Sundowns Academy product credits dedication and hard work for his impressive run.
“My drive has always come from my dedication to work hard, earn a spot in the senior team, and change my family’s circumstances,” said Cassius Mailula.
The Bafana forward’s journey has not been smooth sailing, particularly trying to adjust to the rigours of first-team football.
However, he has credited two seniors – Themba Zwane and Bongani Zungu – for helping him settle in.
“I won’t lie. Playing in the senior team is not easy. At first, it was challenging to adapt to everything that was happening. It felt surreal to be playing alongside footballers whom I used to see on the field when I was still a ball boy.”
Having won his first league title, he will now set his sights on the CAF Champions League title. Sundowns are in the quarterfinals, and Coach Rulani Mokwena has made it clear they want to go as far as possible in the competition