Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi has challenged his players to surpass the record-breaking MTN8 campaign achieved by his former club, Golden Arrows, in the 2009/10 season.

Under Mngqithi’s guidance, Arrows scored a remarkable 11 goals in that competition, culminating in a 6-0 demolition of Ajax Cape Town in the final at Orlando Stadium. The team’s journey to the title included victories over Free State Stars, AmaZulu, and a dramatic final that was interrupted by floodlights. The 6-0 final score remains the largest margin of victory in a PSL cup final.

Following Rulani Mokwena’s departure to Wydad Casablanca, Mngqithi has assumed full coaching responsibilities at Sundowns. Mngqithi’s tenure begins with MTN8 a quarter-final clash against Polokwane City at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday (15:00).

Mngqithi has set a clear goal for his players: to emulate the defensive solidity and attacking prowess of his Golden Arrows side.

“What I said to the players, I said, they must break that record,” said Mngqithi at the club’s media day on Thursday. 

“They must make sure, because in the MTN8 you play the four matches, but we scored 11 goals, we conceded one then.”  

Sundowns’ impressive pre-season form, where they scored 13 goals and conceded only two, has bolstered Mngqithi’s confidence.

“This time around they have the same mandate, to try to match or better that because they scored 13 goals and conceded two (during the off season). So, maybe it is possible,” he added.

Sundowns will be eager to redeem themselves after losing the previous year’s Wafa Wafa Cup final to Orlando Pirates on penalties.