Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder George Maluleka says he had goosebumps as he walked off the field to a standing ovation from the Yellow Nation at the FNB Stadium over the weekend.

The 33-year-old played 68 minutes and grabbed a goal in Sundowns’ 3-0 victory over Sudan’s Al Merrikh in their final Caf Champions League Group A fixture.

Maluleka made his first start for the Brazilians this season in the competition in only his third appearance of the campaign, after he was sidelined through injury for most of the current campaign.

The Tembisa-born midfielder was elated by his performance against the Sudanese side as Masandawana finished top of their group, having won all their games to become the first team in the history of the competition to accumulate sixteen points.

“The game was good, as you know I haven’t started in a while, I have been out with injuries but it felt good to be part of the team and I am here to play,” Maluleka told his club’s official website.

“The game was challenging, thanks to my teammates who were there to help me. I struggled a bit in the second half but I am happy with the results, but there is a lot to improve on.

“It was very special for me, this is my first goal for the club, this one will go into my archives and what a way to make a comeback, to score a goal and the team wins. Credit must go to everyone, my teammates and the technical team.

“That was a very special moment for me as the Mamelodi Sundowns supporters showed me love. I got goosebumps when I walked off, I appreciate their support. I am lost for words, I am very happy and excited for what’s coming up and the victory sealed off a great day for me, the club and the supporters,” concluded Maluleka.