{
  "id": 10422310,
  "title": "‘Everybody fears Sundowns’ – Davids",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/28/everybody-fears-sundowns-davids",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-28T10:02:49.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Citizen",
    "slug": "the-citizen",
    "url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/sport/soccer/local-soccer/everybody-fears-sundowns-davids/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Mamelodi Sundowns have developed a formidable reputation in African football, attracting top talent from across the continent. According to South African coach Fadlu Davids, players at some of the continent's biggest clubs now aspire to join Sundowns, fearing the challenge they present. Sundowns have consistently performed well in the CAF Champions League, reaching the latter stages of the competition and regularly facing top teams like Al Ahly, Wydad Casablanca, and Espérance. Davids spoke about Sundowns' rise on the African and global stages following their victory in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, attributing their success to visionary leadership under former owner Dr Patrice Motsepe. The club's financial resources have played a significant role in attracting top players, allowing Sundowns to compete with more financially stable clubs. With Dr Patrice Motsepe handing over the reins to his son Tlhopie in 2021, Sundowns have continued to grow their reputation, attracting players like Brayan León for substantial fees. Davids, who has experience working with top Moroccan clubs, notes that financial resources are a key factor in a club's ability to sign high-profile players.",
  "summary": "'Everybody wants to play at Sundowns and everybody fears Sundowns,' said Davids.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}