Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi has sent out a heartfelt apology to the Masandawana faithful after suffering a second 1-0 defeat to Stellenbosch, to bow out of the MTN8 competition. 

An unconvincing start of the season for the Brazilians under familiar but relatively new management. The newly promoted Sundowns coach suffered his second consecutive 1-0 to Stellenbosch in the second leg of the MTN8 semi final at Moses Mabhida on Sunday. 

In voicing his disappointment on the results, the former Golden Arrows gaffer acknowledged the support and presence of Sundowns fans, who pitched up in numbers at a venue away from home. 

“Yah man, it’s very unfortunate, and honestly one feels bad that we lost again in this match which our supporters gave us so much support,” remarked Mngqithi. 

Mgqithi proceeded to add, “They came in numbers because they were confident, we would come back strong and give them something.”

In their recent reign as the most dominant South African club in terms of trophy success, Sundowns have found the MTN8 rather difficult to attain. 

Despite winning seven league titles, three Nedbank Cups, and a CAF Champions League in the last ten years, Masandawana have only managed a single MTN8 title in the 2021/22 season. 

Mngqithi alluded to this state of affairs, mentioning that his club has always found itself bowing out at the hands of smaller teams as they take time to hit the top gear.

“But unfortunately, this Cup for whatever reason, I can give you all the years I have been here, we have always lost this match, never against a very big team,” reflected Mngqithi. 

In a somber speech, the 53-year-old passed words of apology to the Masandawana supporters who he feels the team has let down considering their confident expectations. 

“One is feeling sorry and should apologize to the supporters for having let them down when they come in numbers to support us,” pardoned the Downs tactician. 

Despite bowing out of this season’s MTN8, Sundowns remain in contention for several titles this season. 

With the season in its beginning stages, the Pretoria sides has the league title, CAF Champions League, Nedbank Cup, Carling Knockout Cup and FIFA Club World Cup to contest for.