Mamelodi Sundowns may have concealed prolific scorer Peter Shalulile for Saturday’s must-win match at Peter Mokaba Stadium against Orlando Pirates.
Shalulile, a Namibian international, has been noticeably absent from previous Sundowns squads. It was widely believed that he was injured. Sundowns co-coach Manqoba Mngqithi’s statement that Shalulile may not play on Saturday in the second leg of the MT8 semi-final came as a surprise.
The first leg finished in a scoreless tie, therefore Saturday’s match will be like a championship match.
“It is possible that he may be a huge surprise in this match. Because the doctors must make a call in that space, it’s really tough to say whether he’s in or out “said Mngqithi.
“His physical health is still satisfactory, so we must wait to hear what the professionals have to say.
“The most satisfying aspect of the last three matches is that we sought to determine how the team would function without Peter.”
Mngqithi stated that the opposition’s “long block with three centre backs” rendered Sundowns unsuccessful in front of the net. To achieve success, teams are adopting more defensive formations.
Mngqqithi stated that the issue of no shots on goal was viewed from the incorrect perspective.
“I believe that if you examine the game thoroughly, you’ll realize that there were numerous occasions in which we should have been in scoring positions, as opposed to only discussing shots on goal.
“If I may cite a few examples, consider the two times (Khuliso) Mudau was caught alone in the final third during the first half.
“Mudau was discovered alone at a remote outpost, where he had been brutally executed by means of crosses, which may have easily led to something.”
Mngqithi also criticized the journalists who attended Thursday’s news conference. He accused them of bringing questions with ulterior purposes to the press conference.
“You, the media, are attempting to create a gap between the PSL coaches,” Mngqithi stated.
According to Mngqithi, the Peter Mokaba Stadium has been a “decent” location for Sundowns, and its surface is exceptional. It enables us to play the type of football that fans want to watch.