Rulani Mokwena: Mamelodi Sundowns Boss Explains How He Handled Broos and Ramovic’s Fierce Criticism

• Rulani Mokwena took a diplomatic approach to dealing with public criticism
• The Mamelodi Sundowns coach was slammed by Hugo Broos and Sead Ramovic
• Mokoena said he directly called the two managers and voiced his displeasure

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach, Rulani Mokwena, has divulged his method of dealing with the public critiques hurled at him by South Africa boss, Hugo Broos, and TSG Galaxy manager, Sead Ramovic.

Ramovic, in December last year, ahead of a crucial match against AmaZulu, didn't hold back, feeling slighted by Mokwena's remarks after their encounter in the Carling Cup (Telkom Knockout) final.

Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos, also slammed the Sundowns manager just before the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) started in Ivory Coast.

The 71-year-old was quoted by the Belgian press complaining about Premier Soccer League (PSL) coaches not willing to meet him. He labelled Mokwena as the ‘local Mourinho' who 'pretended to be God', as reported by Goal.

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The Masandawana boss, however, took a diplomatic stance, revealing during his post-match press conference after the Nedbank Cup clash against NB La Masia on Tuesday, February 20, that he directly addressed both Ramovic and Broos.

"You are all familiar with some of the things that my colleague at TS Galaxy has said, and I picked up the phone, and I called him directly and raised my displeasure. There were things also said by Hugo Broos. I picked up the phone, called him, directly and raised my displeasure," Mokwena stated, stressing his proactive approach in dealing with the situation, as quoted by iDiski Times.

He further asserted his stance on keeping private matters private, underlining respect for family upbringing and club standards.

Sundowns smash NB La Masia

Meanwhile, on the field, Sundowns demonstrated their prowess in a thrilling encounter against MM Platinum (NB La Masia). Led by a stellar performance from Gaston Sirino, who secured a hat-trick, the Brazilians dominated the match from start to finish.

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Sirino's heroics began with an early goal in the 18th minute, setting the tone for the match. New signing Matias Esquivel and Terrence Mashego added to the tally before the half-time whistle, leaving the hosts reeling at 4-1.

Sundowns continued their onslaught in the second half, with Lebohang Maboe joining the scoring frenzy. Ultimately, Sirino stole the show, capping off his exceptional performance with another goal in the 70th minute, securing a resounding 6-1 victory.

Doubt surrounds Abubeker Nasir's Mamelodi Sundowns future

Sports Brief reported that Rulani Mokwena hinted that Abubeker Nasir may leave the club.

The forward joined the Brazilians from Ethiopian club Coffee SC in 2022,

He arrived with high hopes, having bagged 29 goals in the 2021/22 season.