Patrick Mabedi congratulates Mamelodi Sundowns following Kaizer Chiefs defeat

Although it was not a full house, the inaugural Shell Helix Ultra Cup was a beautiful game of football between Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns at the FNB Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

The Brazilians lifted the pre-season trophy following a 2-1 scoreline courtesy of goals from Jeremy Brockie and Themba Zwane.

Speaking after the match, Patrick Mabedi said they were not good on the ball, but acknowledged Sundowns' quality.

Two new signings in Lehlohonolo Mirwa and Khama Billiat staretd the match and the Zimbabwe international faced his former teammates as he walked away with the man of the match award.

“Look, we played with a good team that’s well organised. I think they did well. I mean, we tried our best but we should’ve done better in the first half because we knew they are a team that likes keeping the ball and we should’ve been a bit more compact," Mabedi told the SABC after the game.

“Overall, we still in the process of pre-season. So far, we are looking to go back to see our mistakes and take it from there," he added.

“They are getting better and better every time. They’re getting used to other players. The combinations are also getting better and I know the more games they play, they will get better,” he said.

“Mainly, we’re looking at the shape and the combinations to see if players understand each other. Trying to emphasise the transition more in regards to on and off the field,” said the interim coach.

“But I think we’re getting there slowly. This is our main objective, we need to look into,” he concluded.

On the other hand, Pitso Mosimane praised his debutants in Lyle Lakay, Sphelele Mkhulise whilst applauding Kennedy Mweene as well as Anthony Laffor who had a great game.

“I’m very impressed with the discipline and the tactical organisation on the game. I’m happy for the guys who have not been playing to get an opportunity,” said Mosimane. 

“Especially for Anthony Laffor - we have been waiting for him, [he is] an important player. He looked revived. I’m happy for our youngster who comes from the academy Sphelele (Mkhulise). He’s a very good player, in the starting line-up (he was) not afraid.”

“But all in all, you cannot be too boastful. This is a pre-season cup it doesn’t mean anything. We need to get back to catch our rhythm. I’m very happy to give other guys a chance to play. We dropped nine players from the team that played in Togo.

“I’m also happy for Lyle Lakay coming in at left-back. He showed good signs. Kennedy Mweene was brilliant. I’m disappointed with the goal, it should have been 2-0 to be honest,” he concluded.