Nedbank Cup: Mamelodi Sundowns Coach Rulani Mokwena Eyes Changes Ahead of NB La Masia Clash

• Mamelodi Sundowns take on NB La Masia in the Nedbank Cup last 32 tonight
• Sundowns boss Rulani Mokwena expects a challenge from the first-division team
• The Brazilians' starting lineup against NB La Masia is expected to be rotated

Mamelodi Sundowns boss, Rulani Mokwena, is anticipating a challenge as his team prepares to take on NB La Masia in the Nedbank Cup last 32 tonight.

After a 1-1 draw against Orlando Pirates in the DStv Premiership on Saturday, February 17, Mokwena has hinted at potential adjustments to the squad.

The physically demanding match played at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium marked the league's return following the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) break, prompting the Sundowns' manager to consider freshening up the starting lineup for the upcoming encounter.

Reflecting on the upcoming game, he acknowledged the quality coaching of Daine Klate and his technical team at NB La Masia, noting the challenge of facing National First Division (NFD) teams. Mokwena highlighted the importance of studying their style of play, particularly after coaching changes.

Nigeria Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali Fancies Clash Against South Africa’s Savior Ronwen Williams

Football

“We know many of their players, and we had the chance to watch one of their games against AmaTuks last week. The style of play is completely different after the coaching change from last season," Mokwena said as quoted on iDiski Times.

With several key players absent due to AFCON 2023 commitments, Sundowns' lineup against La Masia is expected to undergo rotations. The Brazilians' coach stressed the need to field the best team given the demanding schedule ahead, including injuries sustained after the Buccaneers game.

Following the frustrating draw against Orlando Pirates, Mokwena voiced dissatisfaction with his team's performance and criticized the officiating. Despite maintaining their lead in the DStv Premiership table, he acknowledged his responsibility for the outcome and stressed the need for improvement from his players.

Before the game, Mokwena shared his emotions when facing Orlando Pirates, revealing his deep ties to the club, mainly through family connections.

Ezekiel Okare: Kenyan Striker Optimistic About Ivory Coast’s Chances at AFCON 2023

Football

"I'm not the same coach before when we prepare for Pirates and they know that because they know me very well. Unfortunately, it's one of those games that there's far too much to it and it's difficult to become less emotional," he told journalists at a press conference at the club's Chloorkop base, as quoted by SNL24.

His father, uncle and grandfather were all former Bucs players.

Mokwena lauds Divine Lunga's performance vs Pirates

Sports Brief reported that Divine Lunga caught coach Mokwena's eye following his first start of the season.

Lunga was previously unable to play due to registration issues related to foreign player quotas.

Since joining Sundowns from Golden Arrows in July 2021, the defender has struggled to secure regular playing time, making just 13 appearances.