MTN8 Team Profile: Mamelodi Sundowns

All-conquering Mamelodi Sundowns begin a new era in the MTN8 following the exit of long-serving coach Pitso Mosimane, but still basking in the success of a domestic ‘treble’ last season.

The one cup they did not win was the top eight trophy and the new coaching regime will be eager to get their tenure off to a positive start by claiming the elusive piece of silverware for The Brazilians.

The club has brought in a raft of new players, many of the highest quality, to add to a selection that is already an embarrassment of riches. 

LAST SEASON AT A GLANCE

League Position: 1st
League Record:  P30 W17 D8 L5 GF43 GA22
MTN8:  Semifinals
Telkom Knockout:  Winners
Nedbank Cup:  Winners

HEAD COACHES – MANQOBA MNGQITHI & RHULANI MOKWENA

Mngqithi and Mokwena have been placed in charge of the side following the shock exit of Pitso Mosimane to Egyptian giants Al Ahly, though the former will have the final say as the senior ‘partner’.

They will be assisted by veteran Steve Komphela, who has been drafted in from Lamontville Golden Arrows in the role of senior coach, but will report to the main duo.

It is a curious and complex set-up, and time will tell how it pans out and whether the trio are a good fit to work together. 

PSL ERA MTN8 RECORD

For all of their league and cup success over the last few years, Sundowns have found the MTN8 a tough nut to crack, with their last victory coming all the way back in 2007.

They have in fact only made two finals since then, in 2008 and 2016, when they lost to Kaizer Chiefs and BidVest Wits respectively.

Their 17 previous visits to the competition in the PSL era have resulted in four quarterfinal exits, eight semifinal defeats (including the last two years) and five finals, of which they have won one.

2019: Semifinals
2018: Semifinals
2017: Quarterfinals
2016: Final
2015: Quarterfinals
2014: Quarterfinals
2012: Semifinals
2011: Semifinals
2010: Quarterfinals
2008: Final
2007: Winners
2006: Semifinals
2005: Semifinals
2002: Final
2001: Final
2000: Semifinals
1996: Semifinals

TRANSFERS

IN – Kermit Erasmus (Cape Town City), Aubrey Modiba (SuperSport United), Ricardo Goss, Haashim Domingo, Gift Motupa (all BidVest Wits), George Maluleka (Kaizer Chiefs), Grant Margeman (Ajax Cape Town), Lesedi Kapinga, Khuliso Mudau (both Black Leopards), Mothobi Mvala, Peter Shalulile (both Highlands Park), Luvuyo Phewa (Real Kings), Jody February (Cape Umoya United, loan return), Nyiko Mobbie (Stellenbosch FC, loan return)

OUT – Sami Seabi (Swallows FC, loan), Aubrey Ngoma (Cape Town City, loan)

PLAYER TO WATCH – PETER SHALULILE

Namibia international Shalulile was a revelation in the Premier Soccer League last season, netting 19 goals in 38 starts in all competitions.

But a move to Sundowns is a massive step up, not least given the competition he will face just to make it into the starting line-up.  

There is no doubting his quality though and as an expert finisher, should relish playing in a side that creates chances almost at will in games.

It will be fascinating to watch his progress this campaign.