Mamelodi Sundowns FC loses star winger Thapelo Maseko to European side
Mamelodi Sundowns FC has lost star winger Thapelo Maseko to European side F.C. Copenhagen on a four-year contract. The 22-year-old joins the Danish Superliga giants after a standout 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with Bafana Bafana.
What happened?
Maseko's transfer follows a breakthrough moment on the global stage at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he scored the winning goal against South Korea to cement his status as a key figure in the Bafana Bafana setup.
Why it matters for Mamelodi Sundowns FC
The loss of Maseko is a significant blow to Mamelodi Sundowns FC, who are currently 7th in the Betway Premiership with 4 points from 2 games. The team is also 3 points behind leaders Orlando Pirates in the title race.
What comes next?
Mamelodi Sundowns FC will look to rebuild their squad and find a replacement for Maseko. The team has a busy schedule ahead of them, with several matches lined up in the coming weeks.
Mamelodi Sundowns FC has a rich history of developing young talent, and the team will be looking to identify and nurture the next generation of players. The team's goals this season stand at 4 scored, 3 conceded (+1 goal difference).
F.C. Copenhagen director of football Kristjaan Speakman said the club was targeting varied attacking profiles when they identified Maseko as a target. "We're building a balanced squad with different profiles and Thapelo is an exciting addition," Speakman said. "He's comfortable to play on both sides of the pitch and likes to attack space with and without the ball."
Head coach Bo Svensson also spoke of his anticipation ahead of working with the South African. "In Thapelo, we get an explosive, dynamic player with exceptional qualities in direct, 1-on-1 situations," Svensson said, while noting that the winger still has room to grow and is expected to develop further under his guidance in Denmark.
Maseko Credits Former Copenhagen Star With Influencing His Decision
The former Sundowns winger described the transfer as one of the proudest moments of his career and credited former F.C. Copenhagen player Sibusiso Zuma with helping him understand what the club could offer.
"I am very proud of this agreement. It is a dream come true," Maseko said. He arrives in Denmark with clear ambitions. "I come here to win, and I am very excited to get out on the pitch and give everything I've got."
Maseko will wear the number 12 shirt for F.C. Copenhagen as he begins his European chapter.
