By Michael Madyira
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi sees their recent 1-0 loss to Stellenbosch FC in the first leg of the MTN8 semi-final as a wake-up call.
The defeat now means Sundowns must win the second leg on Sunday to advance.
After the match, which took place on Wednesday at the Lucas Moripe Stadium, Mngqithi said that the loss might be good for the team in the long run.
“We probably needed this defeat as a wake-up call because when you keep winning, even when you haven’t played your best, it can make you feel like you’ll always win,” Mngqithi told SuperSport TV.
He believes the defeat will help the team realise they need to improve and is confident they will perform better in the second leg.
Mngqithi has taken complete control of the team this season following the departure of Rhulani Mokwena.
However, Sundowns have had a shaky start, including needing extra time to narrowly beat Polokwane City 1-0 in the MTN8 quarter-finals. The winning goal came from an own goal.
Sundowns struggled against Stellenbosch again, losing on their home ground, and Mngqithi admits there’s still work to be done.
“It’s still a long way to go, but we know we are Sundowns,” he said.
“We are expected to get results in every game, and I believe we will. I also believe that in the second leg of the semi-finals, you’ll see a completely different team.”
Stellenbosch will host the match on Sunday at Moses Mabhida Stadium, as their usual venue, Danie Craven Stadium, is being renovated.
Pictured above: Mamelodi Sundowns’ attacker Tashreeq Matthews being challenged by Stellenbosch forward Lehlohonolo Mojela.
Source: Mamelodi Sundowns
