Brian Onyango: Rulani Mokwena Praises Kenyan Defender’s Impact Despite Limited Game Time

• Rulani Mokwena has lauded Kenyan Brian Onyango's impact on the squad
• The 29-year-old defender has featured in just 22 matches this whole season
• Mokwena has explained the reasons behind Onyango's limited game time

Despite his sparse appearances for the team, Mamelodi Sundowns head coach, Rulani Mokwena, has shed light on what sets Brian Onyango apart.

Over the past two seasons, the Kenyan defender has featured in just 22 matches for the Brazilians across various competitions.

However, Mokwena remains convinced of Onyango's value to the team, stressing his significance as Sundowns approach crucial fixtures.

He explained the reasons behind Onyango's limited game time, revealing that a significant knee injury could have deterred most players from continuing their football careers.

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"When he had a serious injury to his knee, from a psychological perspective, he should have stopped playing football. So, because Brian has played +20 games for Sundowns and he trains the way he trains and has the attitude that he has, he’s an unbelievable human being and very special," Mokwena said, as quoted on Far Post.

In addition to his on-field qualities, he highlighted Onyango's leadership role within the team, citing his captaincy experience with the Kenyan national team as evidence of his influence in the dressing room.

Sundowns are gearing up to face TP Mazembe in a crucial CAF Champions League encounter at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday, March 2, at 15:00 local time.

The previous meeting between the two sides ended in victory for TP Mazembe. Still, recent results have left the group wide open, setting the stage for an enthralling final group stage fixture.

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Despite the challenging fixture list, Mokwena remains optimistic about Sundowns' chances in the competition. He expressed confidence in his team's ability to compete at the highest level and challenge the dominance of North African clubs on the continent.

"Mamelodi Sundowns have proven themselves as one of the best teams on the continent, and we will win the Champions League," he promised, as reported by Sowetan Live.

Mokwena responds to Sead Ramovic’s accusations

Sports Brief reported that Mokwena offered a composed rebuttal to allegations against him by TS Galaxy coach Sead Ramovic.

Ramovic had earlier refuted his assertion that he had spoken to Bafana Bafana's head coach, Hugo Broos.

The Galaxy manager challenged the accuracy of the information.