'Disappointed' Mamelodi Sundowns ex-defender wishes for Kaizer Chiefs or Orlando Pirates in Nedbank Cup quarter-final after poor mentality against Mpheni Defenders - 'In Mzansi we have problem with attitudes'

Mamelodi Sundowns beat Mpheni Home Defenders 2-0 on Sunday at the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium to seal progress to the quarter-final.

The Miguel Cardoso-led team scored their goals in the first half through Tashreeq Matthews and Bathusi Aubaas.

However, they ended the game with 10 players after the former's red card following a second bookable offence.

Cardoso gave a chance to a few fringe players to prove their worth at the club.

However, some were far from convincing even though the Brazilians advanced to the last eight thanks to the two goals scored in the first 20 minutes.

They join the likes of Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, SuperSport United, Stellenbosch, Durban City, and Marumo Gallants.

Former Sundowns defender Dan Semake was not happy with the display last weekend.

He has now explained why it is good for his team to draw either of the Soweto giants, and explained the importance of having a good attitude.

"Yesterday, Sundowns dropped their playing tempo. They seemed too relaxed. They took things too easily, and for me, there is no easy game for Sundowns," he said as quoted by SNL24.

"It doesn't matter what level their opponents are at. As a club, they still have depth, but it ultimately boils down to the mentality and attitude of the players, regardless of who is replacing someone else.

"In South Africa, we have a problem where players' attitudes change if they don’t make the team several times. Such issues don’t exist in Europe - over there, they take their jobs seriously.

"I wish we draw clubs like Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs in the quarterfinals. Our players’ mentality automatically shifts when facing these teams. They don’t even need the coach’s motivation against such clubs.

"However, our performance tends to drop against smaller clubs, and I don’t know why," Semake concluded.

Kaizer Chiefs are desperate to end their decade-long trophy drought while Pirates hope to successfully defend their crown.

It will be interesting to see who Masandawana will land after a draw that will be conducted on Monday, February 17.

Furthermore, Masandawana have already beaten the Glamour Boys twice this season across all competitions, and have beaten Bucs once.