Mamelodi Sundowns will not play their scheduled opening game of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season. The PSL granted a postponement of Masandawana's fixture against Marumo Gallants, which had been set for 1 August, following a special request from the club.

Sundowns Faces Difficult Month After Adams Tragedy

It has been a bruising July for Sundowns. The month was defined by tragedy — the sudden passing of 26-year-old midfielder Jayden Adams forced the club to cancel its opening pre-season friendly against Red Bull Salzburg as a mark of respect. When they did eventually resume activity on their Austria tour, the results did not inspire confidence. Miguel Cardoso's side lost 2-0 to Al Hilal, then drew 1-1 against both Hertha Berlin and MC Alger. They returned from the tour without a single victory, with injuries and the departure of Peter Shalulile adding to the disruption.

There is pressure on Sundowns to rediscover form quickly. Despite holding the CAF Champions League — their second continental title, claimed after defeating FAR Rabat in the 2025/26 final — they surrendered the domestic league for the first time in nine seasons. A defeat to TS Galaxy proved costly, and Orlando Pirates capitalised to finish champions by a single point. The gap between Sundowns and the chasing pack has never felt this narrow.

The postponement buys Cardoso's squad a little more time to settle, but the PSL title reclamation project starts now. The rest of the division is not waiting.