Manqoba Mngqithi's tactics questioned after Mamelodi Sundowns' narrow MTN8 win - 'Downs were not functioning as a team'

Manqoba Mngqithi was in charge of Mamelodi Sundowns in a competitive game, for the first time since Rhulani Mokwena's exit, against Polokwane City in the MTN8 quarter-final.

Goalkeeper Denis Onyango was sent off in the 83rd minute, but Masandawana held on to win 1-0 in extra time.

However, the performance did not impress former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye.

"Mamelodi Sundowns were too predictable because they did the same thing every time until the first half ended," he told iDiski Times.

"If you check the chances they created, they created them in 20 minutes after that there was nothing because they were doing the same thing.

"The reason Sundowns were not themselves is that a couple of players who play in vital positions, I’m referring to [Teboho] Mokoena, [Aubrey] Modiba and [Peter] Shalulile were off. So, it was very difficult for Sundowns to function as a team. Yes, there are star players in the team but for them to function they have to play as a team.

"I think Manqoba needs to have a plan B going forward to other games. You need wingers right and left up front. You can’t rely on full-backs because this is a game where you become predictable and today I think he was predictable at times," Khanye continued.

"In the game [against Polokwane], he needed players that can draw others in the box, players that can go behind the defence and change the gear and he only had Ribiero do that in this game."

Sundowns reached the final last season but failed to beat Orlando Pirates, they will be aiming at going all the way this time around. However, they first need to get past Stellenbosch in a two-legged semi-final.

They also have no alternative but to try their best to defend the Premier Soccer League crown after investing heavily in the squad. Mngqithi's main priority is to win the Caf Champions League crown.

Masandawana have to continue working hard to ensure they get their flow back after Mokwena's exit.

Mngqithi has no time for trial and error, he must work harder with Steve Komphela and Romain Folz to find the best way to ensure every player delivers as expected.