Tinkler claims ‘secret agent’ spied on Sekhukhune as they matched Sundowns in Nedbank Cup defeat- ‘ They picked up certain things were our plans ahead of the game’

Sekhukhune United pushed Mamelodi Sundowns to the limit, forcing the game into extra time. Just when penalties seemed inevitable, Jayden Adams struck late to secure victory for Miguel Cardoso's side. Goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner was a standout performer, making crucial saves that kept his team in contention. His heroics earned him the Man of the Match award. After the game, Eric Tinkler expressed his disappointment, stating that his team matched Sundowns and dominated for large portions of the match. Despite the loss, Tinkler remained proud of his squad's effort and resilience.

“To come up against a team of this quality like Mamelodi Sundowns, is never easy, for any team, obviously the planning and preperation leading up to the game was important, I think we must have a spy somewhere,” Tinkler said as reported by iDiski Times.

“They picked up certain things were our plans ahead of the game, looking how they structured themselves in the first half, I don’t think they done that this season, so somewhere along the lines they must have found out what we’ve done during the week.

“But they made five changes to their line-up, Keanu [Cupido] came in and there was that question whether he would be playing a six-role or part of a back-three and he ended up part of the back-three but it didn’t change our planning or set-up.

“In the first half we had the better chances, Learner didn’t have to make a save, his saves came later in the game, I thought the team was good and I was very proud, but things changes after the 60th minute, all the momentum went there way and we lost structure and shape."

With Sekhukhune United now out of the Nedbank Cup, their full focus shifts to the league. Eric Tinkler’s men will aim to finish in a strong position to secure Caf competition qualification. They currently sit in fourth place with 34 points from 22 games. With eight matches remaining, consistency will be key in achieving their season objectives.

Eric Tinkler and his squad now prepare for a crucial league fixture against his former side, Cape Town City. The team has struggled for results lately and desperately needs a positive outcome. A win would boost their confidence heading into the final stretch of the season. Tinkler will be looking for a strong response from his players.