Mamelodi Sundowns co-coach Manqoba Mngqithi has described the Brazilians’ failure to score in two successive matches as uncharacteristic.
Sundowns were held to a goalless draw by Bloemfontein Celtic at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville on Tuesday evening.
The draw with Phunya Sele Sele followed a few days after Sundowns drew 0-0 with SuperSport United in a Tshwane derby last weekend.
“It’s uncharacteristic of Sundowns not to score in two matches,” Mngqithi said.
Sundowns are still log-leaders despite drawing their last two matches.
“It was never really a game with good compactness from us. Because of (Harris) Tchilimbou and (Motebang) Sera’s speed we were drawn backwards,” Mngqithi said referring to the Celtic match.
“Second half I think we were stronger. We put a strong emphasis on (Lantshane) Phalane and (Lucky) Baloyi. The second half looked a little bit better even though there were scary moments when they counter attacked.”
Celtic coach John Maduka, meanwhile, said he knew what to expect from Sundowns and things happened as he had expected them.
“I knew it was going to be difficult, especially playing Sundowns at Atteridgeville. We knew that they are an offensive team. Our plan was to defend and rely on counter attacks and I think that worked,” Maduka said.
The former Celtic and Bush Bucks midfielder also commented on Tchilimbou’s disallowed goal.
“I think it’s something difficult to comment on. From where we were sitting it looked like an offside,” he said.
