Kalou impressed as Sundowns shine against Orbit

Former Chelsea forward and Ivory Coast legend Salomon Kalou witnessed his first Betway Premiership clash at Loftus Versfeld, where defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns swept aside Orbit College. The veteran attacker left the stadium deeply impressed by the quality on display.

Kalou reflected on the evening with admiration, saying that the South African league had a real edge to it — competitive, full of talent, and brimming with energy.

“Watching Sundowns tonight (Monday), I can see why Bafana Bafana have been performing so well in recent years. The standard here is very high,” he said.

The night carried an added touch of symbolism when Sundowns boss Tlhopi Motsepe presented Kalou with a club jersey.

Motsepe explained the gesture with pride. “We see ourselves as a proudly African club, and part of that is celebrating the heroes who’ve inspired the continent,” he said, adding that Kalou gave hope to many Africans through the way he played.

“We want to carry that same spirit forward. When legends like him visit our home ground, it’s important to honour them and showcase the unique style of South African football.”

The evening was more than just a routine victory — it was a statement victory for the defending champions as they returned to business.