Rulani Mokwena Elaborates on Pyramids FC’s Approach As Mamelodi Sundowns Drop Points Again

• Rulani Mokwena exchanged enthusiastic words with Mostafa Fathi of Pyramids FC
• Mamelodi Sundowns drew a CAF Champions League tie at home to the Egyptians
• A heated reception awaits Sundowns as they travel to Egypt for the return fixture

The CAF Champions League kitchen contains much spicier ingredients. Mamelodi Sundowns may sit top of Group A but have not had things go all their own way in the continental showpiece.

An opening-match victory against FC Nouadhibou was followed by defeat in Lubumbashi and a goalless draw at home to Pyramids FC, who they face again in the final group-stage game of 2023.

The tie has plenty of niggle which had the Sundowns coaching staff agitated for much of the afternoon. The Egyptians were physical in defence, using every opportunity to slow the game down.

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Sundowns had almost 70% of the possession and completed double as many passes as their opponents, while Pyramids committed 17 fouls and received one red card late in the game.

Striker for the Egyptian giants, Fagrie Lackay was particularly lucky to stay on the pitch after his lunging tackle on Thapelo Maseko in the second half.

Mokwena and 70th-minute substitute, Mostafa Fathi then needed separating after tensions boiled over. IDiskiTimes quoted Mokwena as saying:

"It was a bit of an unfortunate situation, and again it happens because of a foul that’s not given. The players feel incensed, and when you try and calm everyone down, then players react."

The hosts did manage to get three of 10 shots at goal on target, while earning seven corners, but could find the decisive moment. HollywoodbetsBlog quoted Mokwena's thoughts:

"It was a difficult game because when you have to set the intensity and the tempo, you’re the only one responsible for that, it becomes very difficult. We take the point and we move on."

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Rulani Mokwena responds regarding rival coaches

Sports Brief recently reported on Rulani Mokwena's response to criticism coming from rival coaches.

TS Galaxy's Sead Ramovic accused Mokwena of finding excuses while Gavin Hunt issued a subtle jibe.

The African Football League winner admitted he was aware of it but was philosophical in his reflections.