Coach Manqoba Previews Masandawana’s Return To Action

Mamelodi Sundowns are gearing up for their much anticipated return to football as they conclude preparations for a trip to Kwa-Zulu Natal to face Richards Bay FC in the Nedbank Cup Last 32.

The Brazilians are currently enjoying a 14 point gap at the top of the DStv Premiership table in the Premier Soccer League after securing 13 wins, 1 loss and 5 draws in the first round of the 2021/22 season. Having set such a great momentum to their title defense.”

Coach Manqoba Mngqithi spoke about how confident he is in ih his teams readiness to return from the break:

“We unfortunately have to start with the Nedbank Cup away from home, but we will have to give it our best shot. I’m very confident [that] the team is ready to start [the second round of] the season, but we have to take each game as it comes and not be too confident because that can be dangerous.” Said Bafana Ba Style Co-Coach Manqoba Mngqithi.

“The team is looking very interesting, you must treat the game with a lot of respect and a lot of humility. You must understand that it will not be easy to play against Richards Bay, because they are a team with a lot of pedigree in this tournament, they’ve beaten Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, you must be worried that as such a big team that we don’t get into that history of being another one. It will be a very difficult match [but] all our preparations are geared towards trying to make sure that we do the best that we can.”

It is worth noting, however, that Richards Bay are also rising to the occasion in the National First Division (NFD) sitting top of the league table after winning 9 of their 17 matches played, 5 draws and 3 lost. The statistics from both clubs suggests the gulf between the teams may be bigger than the anticipation, and given the hosts historical record in this tournament, it is no surprise that Downs have got their work cut out for them in KwaZulu-Natal.

“It will be a very difficult match, all our preparations are geared towards trying to make sure that we do the best that we can, and play the game and give it all the respect that it deserves.”

“This is one of the most difficult matches that any coach would want to play, because everybody is expecting a draw. I’m also glad that I will be playing against one of the coaches that are coming from a province that I like so much.”

Mamelodi Sundowns battle Richards Bay FC at the Princess Magogo Stadium on Friday, in the Nedbank Cup Round of 32. Kick off is at 18h00, this game will be televised live on SuperSport.