‘We are not the Mamelodi Sundowns we were before and during the FIFA Club World Cup’ - Questions mount over the Brazilians’ form following MTN8 setback

Mamelodi Sundowns saw their MTN8 journey cut after a tense semi-final two-legged battle with rivals Orlando Pirates. The first leg at Orlando Stadium ended 1-1 and the return fixture at Lucas Moripe Stadium mirrored the same scoreline, forcing the tie into a penalty shootout where the Brazilians fell short last Saturday.

In the Premier Soccer League, Sundowns currently sit fourth with seven points from three matches, but their performances have lacked the fluency and dominance fans have come to expect. Reflecting on the team’s struggles, former Sundowns star Papi Mbele shared an honest assessment of where things stand.

"What happened to us over the weekend is difficult to swallow. I'm not happy with the way we are playing," former Sundowns star Papi Mbele told KickOff.

"We are not the Sundowns we were before and during the Club World Cup. Holding our own against big teams like Borussia Dortmund showed how good we are. We have not been convincing. The format of having a first leg and a second leg doesn't work in South Africa. It unfairly gives the other team a second chance.

"The PSL should reconsider this format. Wafa Wafa should be Wafa Wafa, let's not give other teams the advantage of going back to the drawing board," he added.

"I'm a former player of Mamelodi Sundowns. The club is still a part of me. I believe we should start matches with seasoned players like Aubrey Modiba. In midfield, we should include (Teboho) Mokoena or (Bathusi) Aubaas,” he concluded. 

While Masandawana work on getting their squad to click on the pitch, they’re also facing challenges off it.   

Star striker Lucas Ribeiro has been pushing for a move away, but a potential transfer to Qatar SC collapsed after the two clubs failed to reach an agreement, leaving the Brazilian’s future in limbo with the defending PSL champions, as he looks to continue fighting his battles.

After a disappointing weekend, Sundowns now turn their attention to a blockbuster midweek PSL clash against Kaizer Chiefs on Wednesday, 27 August.

Amakhosi come into the encounter brimming with confidence, having collected nine points from their opening three matches to sit second on the log and riding a strong wave of momentum.