The 29-year-old celebrated another milestone on Saturday night when Sundowns defeated defending champions Orlando Pirates 2-0 in the MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Cele was introduced in the second half as Miguel Cardoso’s side secured the trophy, adding to his growing collection since joining the Brazilians following his exit from Amakhosi.
His arrival at Sundowns came after a frustrating period at Chiefs, where he was reportedly informed by head coach Fernando da Cruz that he was surplus to requirements because of competition in midfield.
The midfielder was subsequently left training individually before reaching a mutual agreement to terminate his contract, bringing his spell at Naturena to an end.
However, Sundowns wasted little time in securing his services, offering him an opportunity to revive his career at a club with a strong winning culture.
Reflecting on his journey after Saturday’s final, Cele admitted that the experience had tested him but insisted that remaining focused on the future was crucial to overcoming the difficult period.
“For me, football is life. It has been a difficult journey, but one had to overcome,” Cele told the media after the match.
“Going through what I went through to be here, it has been the same thing: pushing myself and focusing on what is coming next. For me, it was about being at a club like Sundowns, and being here today, I’m so grateful.”
The midfielder also expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to win silverware so early in his Sundowns career, describing the experience as a blessing.
“As I said, it is a blessing because it is not common. Having just joined the club recently and won two trophies, it is major for me and for us, especially the new players who are coming in,” he added.
“We come with the ambition to help the club continue to elevate. So, it is a blessing.”
Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi has admitted that the Buccaneers face a painful week following their 2-0 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.
Mamelodi Sundowns winger Siyanda Ndlovu believes the doubts surrounding his move from Golden Arrows helped him become a better player as he continues to establish himself at the Pretoria outfit.
Orlando Pirates forward Ghampani Lungu has broken his silence following his costly penalty miss in the MTN8 final, thanking supporters for their encouragement after the Buccaneers suffered a 2-0 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns.
Kaizer Chiefs will be without four players when they host Stellenbosch FC in the Betway Premiership on Tuesday, with coach Fernando Da Cruz facing a selection headache ahead of the club's return to action.
