Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Manqoba Mngqithi explains how they have themselves to blame for the MTN8 semifinal first leg defeat to Stellenbosch FC in Atteridgeville.
Wasteful Sundowns suffered a shock 1-0 defeat to Stellies at home after on form Winelands club’s fullback Fawaaz Basadien’s second penalty gave the away side an advantage heading into the second leg.
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Speaking to Supersport TV, the former Golden Arrows tactician revealed how he was not happy with the club’s display and how they had no one to blame but themselves.
“We made it difficult for ourselves,” He told SuperSport TV.
“Because we started to see the team that we would like to see immediately after we conceded. The speed of the ball was faster.
“We were looking to probe as much as possible, and we created opportunities, but unfortunately, when you don’t take your opportunities inside the box, you get punished with a penalty like this one.
“But the truth of the matter is, first half, we did not control the game very well. I think we were a little bit scattered.
“When we improved in the second half and we brought the centre-backs shorter to try and assist in our build-up, and I think we really started to look like we penetrated a little bit better from our build-ups, but it’s still the first half of the game. The second half it’s still gonna give us more.
He also went on to add how the loss has woken up his side and how he expects them to come out with victory in the second leg.
“Honestly speaking, I think, it’s still a long way, but we know we are Sundowns,” he added.
“We are expected to get the results in every game we play, and I do believe we will get the results.
“And I do believe in the second round of the semifinals you will see a completely different team.
“We needed this (loss) as well probably as a wakeup call because when you keep winning and winning, even when you not done exceptionally well, it creates an impression that you will always win, or you’re entitled to win.
“And I think this is very good because it will give the team a very good wakeup call.
“And I am very confident, we will do very well in the second round,” Mngqithi concluded.
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The return leg is set for Sunday, the 1st of September at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban with kick-off set for 3 pm S.A. time.
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