Mamelodi Sundowns legend Tiyani Mabunda responds to Phuti Mohafe's claims that 'It's easier to play against Masandawana' compared to Orlando Pirates - 'People said so when coach Pitso Mosimane left'

Former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Tiyani Mabasa has reacted to Polokwane City coach Phuti Mohafe's claims when comparing Orlando Pirates and Masandawana.

Mohafe recently made a daring assertion that it’s simpler to face the Brazilians compared to the Buccaneers this season under new coach Cardoso.

However, in response to Mohafe's claims, Mabunda, who was part of the team for seven years as a player, spoke out about Sundowns' abilities to adapt under a new technical team.  

"I honestly feel like it puts us (when people say Sundowns are beatable) in a position where we are able to show who we are and able to rise to the occasion. I remember every time when we had that season of transition, that was the same talk, that Sundowns are beatable, people can play against them," Mabunda said on the Pitchside Podcast.

"But once the car has started and it's on the move, you know what happens, it was the same thing when coach Pitso Mosimane left, there was a restart of new coaches and people said Sundowns are beatable, but the team continued to win the league.

"It was the same when coach Rhulani Mokwena took over, they said the team is now beatable, the team went on to lose only one match in the league. It’s always the case, it was the same when coach Manqoba Mngqithi took over, but within two games, people were getting five, so with due respect, people must not get carried away," he added.

"I have seen the movie before where people people take Sundowns for granted, but yeah, football is a game of opinions, everybody has their opinions and it's allowed, and it's good when people feel that they can compete with Sundowns it also helps the standard of football in the nation, but be people must be very careful of what they wish."

Mohafe, whose Polokwane team is positioned third in the Premier Soccer League standings, behind the second-placed Pirates, defeated Sundowns in October last year.

Nonetheless, the Tshwane giants triumphed over Rise and Shine in the league's second-round match in November while Masandawana were still under Mngqithi's leadership.

Additionally, Polokwane had no chance against Jose Riveiro's star-filled team in the first-round league match, with the remaining leg yet to be played.

The PSL reigning champions currently lead the standings with 33 points, six points ahead of the Sea Robbers and 13 points ahead of the Limpopo-based outfit. 

Cardoso is anticipated to secure all the remaining trophies this season, including the league title, Nedbank Cup, and the Caf Champions League, as Sundowns prioritise those.

Masandawana will face the tricky Golden Arrows on Sunday, with the kickoff scheduled for 17h45 at the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium.