The Masandawana tactician has come in to hype one of his players he believes is not receiving the credit he deserves. The coach feels his player, who is a midfielder, is not appreciated the way he should and spells out the qualities he sees in him as the quality of Sundowns' squad is under scrutiny following little activity in the transfer market.
The 27-year-old appeared on course to destroy his career but the Buccaneers took him in when other teams appeared not wanting anything to do with the midfielder. But he has picked himself up and has been making headlines for the right reasons as he seems to be enjoying a new lease of life at the Soweto giants.
Masandawana rallied from behind to claim all three points against the KwaZulu-Natal side at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday night. The win keeps Sundowns within striking distance of Premier Soccer League leaders Sekhukhune United as the title race heats up.
The Tshwane giants have recovered from the setback suffered at the hands of Marumo Gallants to return to winning ways in a convincing manner. Despite conceding first, the league's defending champions fought to ensure they collected three more points in the season.
The Buccaneers cruised to a comfortable 3-0 victory over Lioli FC in a CAF Champions League first preliminary round, first leg match at Free State Stadium on Saturday. It was a big win for the Soweto giants, who now host the Lesotho Champions, enjoying three away goals. The result also saw the PSL heavyweights sealing a 3-0 win on the trot in all competitions.
The tactician has complained saying Downs can only play good football under South African coaches. He also said the current technical bench is not convincing, as they make a lot of mistakes.
The 30-year-old featured in his first match of the season when he came on as a second half substitute as the Brazilians were held to a draw by Bahlabane ba Ntwa. He played the last 20 minutes of the game and is now assured to be with Masandawa this season for now unless he moves in January. But he will have a lot to do to reclaim his starting berth for the Tshwane giants.
Mzansi might be forced to win their last two Group C games to get their ticket after the World Football Governing Body opened a case against Hugo Broos' side.
Masandawana are under the microscope after dropping crucial points to Marumo Gallants in a tense midweek Premier Soccer League showdown, raising questions about form, tactics and their grip on the early title race.
Wednesday night’s clash at Dr. Petrus Molemela Stadium delivered high drama as the hosts dug deep to frustrate the defending PSL champions, holding them to a hard-fought draw in a fiercely contested encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Thabiso Motloung lets rip at the 'ugly' situation the Brazilian found himself in and wonders how the global football governing body and clubs will navigate a world where players can unilaterally tear up their contracts and move on.
Masandawana have been heavily linked with the forward as they hope to get him to replace Lucas Ribeiro. It is understood that Downs recently placed an improved offer for the playmaker as they push to see whether they could get a deal over the line. But now it appears that will not be possible as the Brazilian side dig in.
GOAL gives you the details to follow Madandawana's bid to reclaim top spot on the PSL table when they face Bahlabane ba Ntwa away at Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium on Wednesday.
The seasoned 37-year-old striker displayed a standout performance against the Glamour Boys, leading Babina Noko’s charge to the top of the PSL table. His experience and sharp finishing proved decisive in a night that reshaped the early title race.
Masandawana will be back in action for a midweek game to face Bahlabane Ba Ntwa, who are without a win in the last three games, despite starting the campaign positively.
After being the second player to arrive at Chloorkop this transfer window, following the signing of Fawaaz Basadien, the 27-year-old is in line to make his maiden appearance for Masandawana and has a huge task to prove that his acquisition was spot-on. But he faces stiff competition for playing time from a midfield laden with quality players.
So far, the Brazilians have not been as busy as they are used to being in the transfer window, but it has now emerged they are looking for quality players to bring on board.
The Brazilians have shipped out on permanent basis or on loan at least 12 players and have confirmed just two new signings which could compromise the depth they have been enjoying over the seasons. They now face a worrisome fitness situation in their camp which they hope will not affect their performances as they try to strike a balance between domestic and continental responsibilities.
Mamelodi Sundowns FC
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