Marumo Gallants lived up to their name as they gallantly fought on two fronts for most of the 2022/23 season but in the end, heartbreak is all they have to show for their efforts after they were knocked out in the semi-finals of the CAF Confederation Cup and were relegated from the DStv Premiership. It would have come as a big blow to the players especially, as they sacrificed a lot in what was a unique campaign for them. Picking up the pieces after such misfortune is never easy, and some players will find themselves clubless, while others have to go down with the team and fight for a return to the topflight. Mahlatse Makudubela formed a key part of the Limpopo-based outfit, especially with his happy-go-lucky persona in the dressing room, but now has a decision to make as the 2023/24 season looms large. In this interview with Soccer Laduma’s Masebe Qina, Skudu, as the skilful star is fondly known, discusses the team’s journey on the continent, coming up against former teammate Bernard Morrison, what really led to their relegation, and more.
Masebe Qina: Skudu, how do you sump up the 2022/23 season?
Mahlatse Makudubela: It’s been a rollercoaster of a season, to be honest with you. There have been ups and downs, and I’m sure you can also attest to that – doing well in CAF, but not so well in the league. But if you can look at the log standings, it is not a true reflection of what the season has been all about for us. However, this is football and things happened the way they have. Personally, for me it’s been a fair season, although not the best. It would have been nice to reach the final of the CAF competition and keep the club in the topflight.
