{
  "id": 13670432,
  "title": "Two-trophy Thabo Cele feels special at Mamelodi Sundowns after Chiefs exit",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/11/two-trophy-thabo-cele-feels-special-at-mamelodi-sundowns-after-chiefs",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-11T07:15:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "IOL",
    "slug": "iol",
    "url": "https://iol.co.za/sport/soccer/2026-10-11-two-trophy-thabo-cele-feels-special-at-mamelodi-sundowns-after-chiefs-exit/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Thabo Cele has found a new home at Mamelodi Sundowns, earning two championship medals within a month's time following a tough departure from Kaizer Chiefs. The midfielder was part of Sundowns' victorious team in the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup in September, before making his debut in Saturday's 1-0 win over Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium. Cele views his swift return to silverware as a blessing, as he joined the club recently and the new players are helping the team elevate. His arrival at Sundowns came after a disappointing end to his time at Chiefs, which failed to deliver the desired results. Despite the challenges, the 29-year-old remains focused on the future, viewing his past experience as another obstacle to overcome. Cele's debut for Sundowns marked a significant personal milestone, as he helped the team achieve another MTN8 title and deny rivals a historic fifth consecutive crown. While two medals in such a short span provide an inspiring start, Cele aims to prove himself in a star-studded Sundowns team and turn his fresh start into a sustained run of success. For now, the midfielder can bask in the glory of a remarkable first month at his new club, bringing two trophies and renewed optimism after a difficult chapter at Chiefs.",
  "summary": "Tebogo Mokoena’s early goal and Ronwen Williams’ penalty save helped Mamelodi Sundowns beat Orlando Pirates 1-0 at Moses Mabhida Stadium and win the MTN8 for the fifth time.",
  "key_points": [
    "Thabo Cele wins two championships at Mamelodi Sundowns in one month",
    "Midfielder joins Sundowns after Chiefs' disappointing season",
    "Cele's debut marks milestone as Sundowns secure MTN8 title"
  ],
  "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."
}