Mngqithi Criticizes Two Unnamed Players Against AS Maniema Union
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi has expressed frustration over 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 numerous chances, the Brazilians were unable to find the back of the net, leaving them to share the spoils with the Congolese side.
Sundowns, who boasted an impressive 76% ball possession, registered 17 goal attempts, five shots on target, and 11 corner kicks during the encounter. Yet, they could not breach AS Maniema Union’s resilient defense, with goalkeeper Brudel Efonge proving an impenetrable force.
Mngqithi, however, believes the stalemate was not solely due to missed opportunities but also a lack of effort from certain players.
“I think I would have issues with one or two players that I felt maybe did not give enough effort. I think the rest of the players pushed from the hearts,” said Mngqithi.
“I was very happy with our last line; I think they performed very well. In the middle field, I think Tebza (Tebogo Mokoena) dominated his space, and he did very well against Kitambala (Jephte).”
While the coach acknowledged the contributions of standout performers, he did not hold back on criticizing what he felt was a lack of intensity from some individuals.
“There were a lot of very good players, [but] the players that maybe I need to have issues with were the players that I had question marks on the level of effort and intensity because I think that’s where the mistakes would emanate from,” he added.
The Brazilians created several promising chances, including key counterattacks, but failed to capitalize on them. According to Mngqithi, the team’s inability to execute in decisive moments was a recurring issue throughout the game.
“Be that as it may, I still believe the group that played also gave a good account of themselves,” said the coach.
“It was just those final touches and not taking advantage of some situations. There were some good breaks that we got, a two versus one and we suddenly can’t even get a shot at goal. It’s things like that that infuriates you.”
Sundowns’ failure to secure maximum points leaves them with a challenging road ahead in a group that includes Moroccan giants FAR Rabat and Raja Casablanca. This was the first time Sundowns had failed to win in the first game of the group stage since losing to Lobi Stars in the 2018/19 season.
As Sundowns failed to win, Rabat went to the top of Group B after defeating their Moroccan neighbors Raja 2-0.
