Mngqithi praises Mohafe ahead of Polokwane City duel

After Polokwane City handed Mamelodi Sundowns their first defeat of the 2024/25 Betway Premiership last month, Manqoba Mngqithi believes that Phuti Mohafe will make good contributions to South African football as the two sides prepare to do battle at Loftus Versveld on Wednesday.

Kick-off is at 7:30pm (CAT, GMT+2)

CURRENT FORM

As mentioned, Polokwane City shocked the South African football community last month by recording a 1-0 win against Sundowns at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on the 27th of October.

After tasting defeat for the first time this season, Downs subsequently bounced back with a 3-0 victory against Cape Town City in their most recent league tie.

While the Tshwane giants sit in 2nd position on the table with 15 points to their name after six matches played, Rise & Shine occupy 3rd spot, just two points behind their upcoming opponents.

Polokwane City head into their next Betway Premiership encounter on a three-match unbeaten streak that includes back-to-back wins against Downs and Royal AM.

WHAT WAS SAID?

Reflecting on Polokwane City’s season, coach Phuti Mohafe expressed that he is fully focused on the task at hand while reserving special praise for his technical team.

“When you look at it, we allow ourselves to grow and for us to grow is to keep a good relationship among ourselves.

“That one [perceived lack of respect for his work] I care less about it because I think the work I am doing here at the club with the support of the technical team and management speaks volumes for us as a team.

“I don’t care who says what about me, I am working here at Polokwane City and I am surrounded by good coaches. It is not about me but the whole technical team.”

In the other corner, Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi believes that Mohafe has much to give to South African football after being outwitted by Polokwane City last time out.

“I heard that this boy has got attention to detail, he’s got a lot to give to South African football and from that time until now our relationship has always been very good,” The Sundowns mentor said.

“He is one boy that I am very optimistic will make it because he understands and loves the game and he’s got attention to detail.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Mamelodi Sundowns: Iqraam Rayners – The 28-year-old has been a regular goal scorer for Sundowns this season, with six efforts to his name in 12 matches played across the board. However, Rayners’ last scored in the league on the 28th of September and will be eager to get his name on the scoresheet against Rise & Shine.

Polokwane City: Thabang Matuludi – Regarded as one of the best defenders in the PSL currently, Matuludi will once again look to lead the charge on the right-flank on Wednesday night. Having been courted by Kaizer Chiefs ahead of the season, Matuludi will eye an impressive showing against a top-quality Downs outfit in their upcoming league assignment.

HEAD-TO-HEAD

Last five league results:

2019/20 Mamelodi Sundowns 1-0 Polokwane City

2019/20 Polokwane City 0-3 Mamelodi Sundowns

2023/24 Polokwane City 0-2 Mamelodi Sundowns

2023/24 Mamelodi Sundowns 0-0 Polokwane City

2024/25 Polokwane City 1-0 Mamelodi Sundowns