Rulani Mokwena: Mamelodi Sundowns Coach Praises Players’ Performance Against FC Nouadhibou

Rulani Mokwena: Mamelodi Sundowns Coach Praises Players’ Performance Against FC Nouadhibou

Robert Abong'o
February 25, 2024 at 1:54 PM
In this article:
Mamelodi Sundowns logo
Mamelodi Sundowns
South Africa
21
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CAF Champions League
Africa
F.C. Nouadhibou logo
F.C. Nouadhibou
Mauritania
32
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ZA Premier League
South Africa
  • Rulani Mokwena has praised his team after beating FC Nouadhibou
  • Mamelodi Sundowns qualified for the CAF Champions League last 8
  • The Brazilians are now at the top of Group A alongside TP Mazembe

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach, Rulani Mokwena, has praised his team's remarkable display after securing a crucial victory against FC Nouadhibou in the CAF 2023-24 Caf Champions League.

Played at the Stade de la Capitale in Nouakchott on Saturday, February 24, Sundowns emerged triumphant with a 2-0 scoreline, propelling them into the quarterfinals.

Goals from Grant Kekana in the 21st minute and a late strike from substitute new signing Thembinkosi Lorch sank the Mauritanian club.

Rulani Mokwena, Mamelodi Sundowns coach. Photo: Sundowns FC Website.
Mamelodi Sundowns boss Rulani Mokwena was happy with the team's perfomance vs Nouadhibou. Photo: Sundowns FC Website.
Source: Original

With this victory, Sundowns now stand at the top of Group A alongside TP Mazembe, both amassing 10 points after Mazembe's 3-0 win against Pyramids on Saturday. as reported by CAF Online.

The journey to this milestone saw Sundowns overcome initial challenges, including a defeat against Mazembe and a draw with Pyramids. However, they showcased resilience with significant wins, notably securing a 1-0 victory against Pyramids in Cairo before their recent triumph in Nouakchott.

Coach Mokwena praised his team's performance, stressing their control and energy throughout the match. He commended Nouadhibou as worthy opponents, acknowledging their formidable record at home.

“I think a good performance in the first half with a lot of control and chances. In the second half, we also had a lot of control and chances, and the subs were also good and brought good energy to the pitch. Nouadhibou were good opponents and very competitive," Mokwena said, as quoted on Times Live.

He also expressed gratitude towards the people of Nouadhibou for their hospitality, recognizing the challenges of facing a team undefeated at home and in their domestic league.

Looking ahead, the Brazilians will tackle TP Mazembe at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, March 2.

The upcoming DSTv Premiership clash against AmaZulu on Tuesday, February 27, serves as a precursor to this pivotal encounter, where the club aims to maintain momentum and secure their frame as contenders.

Mokwena attracting interest from Europe

Sports Brief reported that coach Rulani Mokwena was attracting interest overseas following South Africa's incredible 2023 Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign.

Most of the Bafana Bafana players play under the young tactician, and they were some of the best players in the team.

The Brazilians' methodical build-up and combination play were evident throughout the competition.

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Robert Abong'o
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