PSL Transfer Focus: Sundowns

The 28-year-old left-back has been a key figure in the league over the last few seasons, and his addition signals intent from the reigning champions to further build their depth and tactical flexibility.

So far, Sundowns have announced the departures of many players, but Basadien is the first confirmed arrival. We dig through the numbers to see what he will bring.

Consistency and Output at Stellenbosch

Basadien was a key figure for Stellenbosch last season, featuring in 25 of the club’s 30 league matches, amassing 2,202 minutes on the pitch. His involvement in build-up play was immense, attempting 1,270 passes at an accuracy rate of 79%. Notably, 622 of those were forward, yielding a forward pass rate of 49%, highlighting his progressive resolve from deep areas.

Further underlining his influence in advanced zones, Basadien recorded:

• 295 final third entries – an average of 11.8 per game
• 38 chances created
• 5 assists
• 3 goals
• 5 through balls
• 29 touches in the opposition box

These figures reflect not just a defender but a player who actively contributes to the attacking phase, especially in transitions and wide overloads.

Visualising his Tactical Profile

This visual highlights Basadien’s pass volume and directional tendencies across the pitch. A significant concentration of his passing originates from the left flank in the middle and attacking thirds, where the highest density (marked in deep red) reflects over 300 passes per zone.

• His most frequent passing zones align with typical full-back positioning, but what sets him apart is the aggressive vertical orientation of his play.
• Arrows originating from these zones are not only frequent but longer and darker, indicating progressive and repeated patterns – particularly cross-field and diagonal entries toward central and right-side areas.

This paints a picture of a left-back who does more than just recycle possession. He penetrates lines and spaces, crucial qualities in Sundowns’ possession-based structure.

What He Brings to Masandawana

Basadien’s hybrid profile, part playmaker, part traditional full-back, aligns with Sundowns’ evolving tactical approach. Whether operating as a high-and-wide outlet in a back four, or as a left-sided centre-back or wing-back in a back three, he offers:

• Ball progression under pressure through forward or lateral passes
• Attacking support, evidenced by final-third entries and chance creation
• Tactical flexibility, with the ability to contribute in settled possession or transition
• Set-piece threat, supported by his chance creation and xT indicators

In Basadien, Sundowns have acquired more than a dependable full-back. They’ve brought in a modern ball-playing defender with vision, consistency, and attacking output. He will have stiff competition from the likes of Aubrey Modiba and a younger Asekho Tiwani, but he will be key for Sundowns in their pursuit of CAF Champions League glory.