Mamelodi Sundowns Coach Rulani Mokwena Sounds Warning Ahead of Kaizer Chiefs Showdown

• Rulani Mokwena has warned his team against underestimating Kaizer Chiefs
• Mamelodi Sundowns are on course to win the DSTv Premiership title unbeaten
• This has been achieved only by Egyptian club, Al Ahly, and Tunisians Esperance

As Mamelodi Sundowns prepare to take on Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Thursday, May 2, Rulani Mokwena has issued a stern warning.

Despite their current eighth-place standing, the Masandawana head coach urged his team not to underestimate the Glamour Boys.

He believes Cavin Johnson's men possess the talent and determination to upset any team on their day.

“We all know Chiefs is Chiefs; at any day, they can turn up. They are a big club, and they deserve incredible respect; I already told you about my respect towards the Chairman. They have a good coach, and I know him personally because I learnt a lot from him. That’s how I look at it. They have some very good players and a team capable of beating anybody,” he said, as reported by iDiski Times.

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With Sundowns sitting comfortably atop the DStv Premiership table with 59 points, many would expect them to cruise to victory against their struggling opponents. However, Mokwena is adamant that his team must approach the match with caution and respect for their rivals.

A win could secure their seventh consecutive league title, but he is more focused on avoiding complacency and ensuring his team remains unbeaten throughout the season.

The Brazilians' bigger picture is to join an elite group of African clubs that have achieved an unbeaten season. Egyptian giants Al Ahly accomplished this feat in back-to-back seasons between 2004 and 2006, while Tunisian giants Esperance enjoyed a remarkable 93-game unbeaten run from 1997 to 2002.

Meanwhile, Amakhosi coach, Johnson downplayed speculation about forming a guard of honour for Sundowns should they secure the title.

“I did not think of that permutation but if there is that type of permutation in the air, we will see what we do by the time we get to the game,” Johnson said, as reported by Hollywood Bets sports blog.

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Mokwena sets record straight on Lorch

Sports Brief reported that Mokwena responded to Thembinkosi Lorch's playing time claims, which some section of fans believed had been heightened due to their friendship.

The midfielder, who joined Masandawana in January, has faced criticism for his performances, with some fans suggesting he hasn't justified his game time.

The coach brushed off the suggestions, stressing that his focus is on the team's success, not personal relationships.