With a 1-0 victory against a resolute AmaZulu FC team, Mamelodi Sundowns left the Capital City with three more points to add to their total.
After many attempts went wide or were stopped by Veli Mothwa’s spectacular effort in the Usuthu goal, the Brazilians had to battle for victory. Coach Rulani described the difficulties the squad had that day as follows:
When you play that far out from the goal, it becomes hard to generate. We basically attempted to open the bus since their line of five was standing still. We put ourselves into the ideal situations, particularly in the second half, and we “kept the stove hot,” as they say.
AmaZulu shocked us today; typically, they play with a 4-3-3 and a three-man midfield. However, today’s approach took us off guard, but we are now ready for it. Now that every game is played against a strengthened defensive block and opponents that park the bus, it is our obligation to take the initiative and play aggressively.
Coach Rulani stated his happiness with the manner the squad was able to prepare for the game and provide the coaching staff a number of selection dilemmas given the lack of midweek activity in the week leading up to the match:
Since I arrived, I have never seen Sundowns practice like they did this week; they were incredible. I informed them that any player could think the lineup for today is unfair. They were all capable of starting because they were quick, active, focused, and competitive.
Despite the outcomes, Coach Rulani expressed his satisfaction with the effort put out by his charges, continuing to amplify the positive vibe permeating the camp:
We have very, very talented players and are a terrific squad. As a coach, one of the things that makes you delighted to work with this bunch of players is their honesty. They always give their best effort.
As the FIFA international break begins, the squad will have a rest before returning to camp to prepare for their MTN8 semifinal matchup against rival Orlando Pirates.