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Mokoena vs Mngqithi GFXGOAL
Dingizwe Gwala

Teboho Mokoena vs Manqoba Mngqithi: Will the Mamelodi Sundowns coach restore influential Bafana Bafana midfielder in Carling Knockout last 16 tie against Golden Arrows?

Teboho Mokoena's Bafana Bafana performances have put pressure on Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Manqoba Mngqithi to restore him in starting line-up.

In the world of professional sports, politics weave their way into the fabric of daily life, and South African football is no exception.

The latest chapter in the political saga of the Premier Soccer League (PSL) unfolds with Teboho Mokoena’s situation at Sundowns.

The talented midfielder finds himself sidelined by head coach Manqoba Mngqithi due to allegations of ill-discipline and perceived disrespect towards the coach. There has been a backlash to Hugo Broos' comments on the situation, as Mngqithi's agent has stood with a shield and a spear to defend his client.

As a result, Mokoena has yet to make an appearance in league play or the Caf Champions League qualifiers, with only outings in the MTN8 to his name in the 2024-25 campaign.

Despite being on the bench and facing rustiness, Mokoena recently showcased his undeniable talent on the international stage.

Called up for Bafana, he shone brightly in a commanding 5-0 victory against Congo Brazzaville on October 11, leaving fans and pundits alike questioning whether Mngqithi should reinstate him in the squad. Here, GOAL delves into the potential ramifications of this decision.

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  • Manqoba Mngqithi, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

    Carling Cup showdown 🏆

    All eyes will be on Mngqithi this Saturday as Sundowns prepare to host Golden Arrows at Lucas Moripe Stadium.

    Will he opt to start Mokoena? The former SuperSport United star has demonstrated that he remains fit and ready, having logged approximately 170 minutes in the 2025 Afcon qualifiers.

    His match fitness is beyond reproach, and his recent performances indicate that he has maintained his sharpness despite his lack of game time at Sundowns.

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  • Manqoba Mngqithi, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

    I am the boss... 🗣️

    When questioned about Mokoena’s exclusion, Mngqithi emphasised the midfielder's importance to the team, asserting that he still plays a significant role at Chloorkop.

    However, he made it clear that he is unafraid to make difficult decisions when players fail to meet expectations.

    This statement serves as a reminder that, ultimately, Mngqithi holds the reins and will make choices that he believes are in the team’s best interest.

  • Teboho Mokoena, SundownsBackpagePix

    ... I am the boss, on the pitch 🦿

    Mokoena’s fall from regular starter as vice-captain to a mere spectator has been a bitter pill to swallow. Yet, when given the chance by coach Hugo Broos, he capitalised on his opportunity, sending a statement by scoring two goals in two matches - an undeniable testament to his skill.

    His exuberant celebrations, however, were not just joyous expressions but also a pointed reminder to Mngqithi of what he can deliver on the pitch.

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  • Rivaldo Coetzee, Mamelodi Sundowns, September 2024Backpagepix

    Why fix it if it's not broken? 👀

    During Mokoena’s absence, Mngqithi turned to Rivaldo Coetzee to fill the critical No.6 role, and Coetzee - a clear Mngqithi favourite - has risen to the occasion.

    Under his stewardship as the bridge between defence and attack, Sundowns have triumphed in their last five outings, netting 16 goals while conceding a mere two.

    This winning formula raises the question: why alter a successful strategy when it’s yielding results?

  • Mamelodi Sundowns players celebrateBackpagepix

    Wait his turn, like everybody else? ⌛

    In the competitive environment of Sundowns, a player's exclusion from the matchday squad often relegates them to the back of the line.

    Past players like Andile Jali, George Lebese, and Oupa Manyisa have all faced similar trials, waiting patiently for their moment to shine.

    Mokoena’s current predicament appears to stem not solely from footballing decisions but from a clash with Mngqithi.

    If the coach chooses to reinstate Mokoena, what message does that send to the players who have patiently waited for their turn? Balancing the need for the best talent on the field with team dynamics places Mngqithi in a precarious position - a true catch-22.

  • Tashreeq Matthews of Mamelodi SundownsBackpagepix

    Dive Deeper

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