Mngqithi Slams Two Players Following AS Maniema Union Match

Mamelodi Sundowns’ coach Manqoba Mngqithi has expressed his dissatisfaction with his team’s performance following a goalless draw against AS Maniema Union in their CAF Champions League opener at Loftus Stadium on Tuesday.

Despite dominating possession and creating several scoring chances, the Brazilians could not find the back of the net, resulting in a point shared with the Congolese side.

With a commanding 76% possession, Sundowns recorded 17 attempts at goal, five of which were on target, and earned 11 corner kicks during the match. However, penetrating AS Maniema Union’s solid defense proved challenging, thanks to a resilient performance from goalkeeper Brudel Efonge.

Mngqithi highlighted that the draw stemmed not only from missed opportunities but also from a lack of effort from some players.

“I think I have concerns with one or two players who may not have given enough effort. The rest of the squad showed great passion,” Mngqithi remarked.

“I was happy with our defense; they performed exceptionally well. In midfield, I believed Tebza (Tebogo Mokoena) made his mark and held his own against Kitambala (Jephte).”

Although the coach acknowledged the significant contributions from standout players, he was not shy to voice concerns about the perceived lack of intensity from others.

“There were numerous quality players, [but] those I feel need addressing are the ones I questioned regarding their effort and intensity because that’s often where mistakes can happen,” he added.

Sundowns missed several promising opportunities, including key counterattacks, failing to convert them into goals. Mngqithi noted that the team’s struggle to take advantage of critical moments was evident throughout the match.

“Still, I believe the group that played demonstrated their skills well,” the coach stated.

“It really came down to those finishing touches and the failure to capitalize on opportunities. There were encouraging breaks, like a two-on-one scenario, and we couldn’t even get a shot off. It’s those little things that can be extraordinarily frustrating.”

The failure to secure maximum points places Sundowns in a challenging position in a group that includes Moroccan giants FAR Rabat and Raja Casablanca. This marked the first time since the 2018/19 season that Sundowns did not win their opening group stage match, having previously lost to Lobi Stars.

While Sundowns struggled for a win, Rabat took the lead in Group B after defeating their fellow Moroccans Raja with a 2-0 victory.