Mokwena Still Hurt By Mamelodi Sundowns' CAF CL Letdown Despite Masandawana's Treble Dreams

• Rulani Mokwena feels winning a treble will not compensate for a Champions League exit
• DStv Premiership champions, Mamelodi Sundowns, are still in contention for three titles
• Mokwena took full responsibility for their loss and apologised to the club and to the fans

Mamelodi Sundowns coach, Rulani Mokwena, has made it clear that winning a treble this season will not make up for the disappointment of exiting the CAF Champions League in the semi-finals.

Despite their impressive 2-1 Nedbank Cup semi victory over Stellenbosch FC, he believes that adding another trophy to their collection will not erase the pain of their loss on the continental stage.

The Brazilians could secure three titles this campaign, having already claimed the inaugural African Football League title and also wrapping up the DStv Premiership trophy with three games left.

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Sundowns will face Orlando Pirates in the Nedbank Cup final on June 1 with a treble in play. However, Mokwena's mind is still on the Champions League, where they have fallen short twice under his tenure.

He admitted it's been an emotional rollercoaster, reflecting on the team's mixed fortunes over the past fortnight.

"I'm still reeling from our exit. I feel like I've let the club and our supporters down. We deserved to be in the semi-finals, and I believe we did enough to give ourselves a chance to reach the final," he said, as quoted by Times Live.

Mokwena acknowledged that luck plays a significant role in the competition, citing factors such as weather conditions and injuries that can swing matches in favour of opponents.

Despite this, he took full responsibility for the team's failure and apologised to the club and its supporters. News24 reported that Mokwena asked for more time so he could deliver the Champions League trophy.

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Mokwena sets record straight on Lorch

Sports Brief previously reported that Mokwena responded to queries about Thembinkosi Lorch's playing time, which some believe is unfair and has been influenced by their friendship.

The midfielder, who joined Masandawana in January, has faced criticism for his lacklustre performances so far, with some sections suggesting he hasn't justified the time he receives.