Allende reveals league title loss revived Mamelodi Sundowns hunger

The reigning African Champions succumbed to second place on the 2025/26 Betway Premiership standing, losing the title to Orlando Pirates as the title race went down to the wire.

Masandawana had won the league a record eight consecutive seasons prior to last campaign and are currently occupying second spot to the Buccaneers as they look to reclaim the title.

Chilean midfielder Allende has now revealed the impact of relinquishing the coveted South African top-flight trophy and how it has shaped the squad's ambitions for the 2026/27 season.

"It was painful [losing the league] and I think that has helped us a little bit to get the hunger so we can get back our trophy," said the 27-year-old to Sundowns TV.

"We put it on target this year that we have to play and win the local competitions in South Africa. Last year we struggled a little bit in that path. But like what I said to you we put it on target to play finals and win."

The Tshwane giants will continue their quest for trophies when they face Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli Saudi in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup on Saturday at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, with the winner facing European champions Paris Saint-Germain in the final.  

"We already have MTN8 final, Super Cup, Intercontinental, the league is also important for us, of course the Carling Knockout and Nedbank," concluded Allende.

He has made 185 appearances for Sundowns, scoring 17 goals while providing 17 assists.