The team performed well today due to many strong individual performances. Rulani Mokwena

Tuesday evening, Mamelodi Sundowns defeated Richards Bay FC 3–2 to advance to the round of 16 in the Nedbank Cup. Peter Shalulile, a Namibian international striker, gave the home team the lead in the Ke Yona match with an early goal for the reigning champions. Shalulile went on to score a pair of goals in the match. When speaking to the press after the match, Masandawana’s Head Coach Rulani Mokwena expressed confidence in his team’s ability to overcome adversity. Mosa Lebusa scored early in the second half to put his name on the scoresheet.

“I’m relieved that we didn’t have to play for 120 minutes. “[It was] a good cup game, with good goals, good for the spectators, a good performance from us, and congratulations to the players for a very good performance today.” The Brazilians’ head coach stated.

“We do not have the time to celebrate victories or records because there are no awards associated with either at this time. We shall celebrate trophies since we are here for that purpose. We are here to win trophies, not to set records or to win games, but to win trophies, which means you must do more, be consistent with your performances, and work extremely hard to remain grounded and continue to strive to be better every day.”

In pursuit of their victory in the opening round of the nedbank Cup 2022-23 season against the Natal Rich Boys, Masandawana made seven changes to their starting lineup. Coach Rulani praised the players that were summoned to complete the assignment at Loftus, stating, “They are all here because they want to be.” They are all available for selection, and there were several outstanding individual efforts today, which contributed to the team’s outstanding performance.”

Coach Rulani also commented on Lesedi Kapinga’s performance after the 27-year-old gave two assists and came close to scoring before being substituted: “I believe he proved that he belongs by contributing to a really excellent team effort. I am extremely proud of him, and he knows how much I like him as a footballer and a person. Also, he is a very good person who is quiet yet works extremely hard, which is what we demand from all club representatives.”

“He seized the opportunity, in my opinion. Very, very good. He could have scored one or two more goals with better decision-making, but I am just as pleased of him as I am of Sipho Mbule, Bongani Zungu, and Mosa Lebusa. Denis [Onyango] was a good goalkeeper with the exception of the goals he allowed. His buildup play and distribution were outstanding.

“[I am] Proud of Peter Shalulile and Ralani, who was also excellent. The substitutes performed well, and [Thabiso] Kutumela shown strong mobility and contribution on the ball. It was a pleasure to see Riva [Rivaldo Coetzee]. “[Andile Jali] AJ was good when he came on, he kept things calm and under control, and, as I said, there were many very good individual performances, which is why the team was so good today.”

Former Bafana Bafana international Bongani Zungu was inserted for the first time in the midfield alongside Sipho Mbule, Kapinga, Sphelele Mkhulise, and Bradley Ralani, who was awarded the man-of-the-match award. The midfield specialist has made eight appearances for Bafana Ba Style in all competitions this season. Upon his return to Chloorkop in August of last year, Coach Rulani outlined his expectations for the 30-year-old and emphasized the significance of competing for a spot in the star-studded squad.

“[He is] an excellent player, but he joins a very strong team. Everyone should be good enough to play, which is why our players are talented enough to play for Mamelodi Sundowns, but we must instill in them the appropriate life ideals so that they do not feel entitled.” Said Coach Rulani.

“Zungu must realize that he must compete with everyone, because life is unfair. These are the values of empowerment that we try to instill in all of our players, that everyone must fight for their place in the team just as they must fight to achieve things in life; nothing in life is handed to you on a silver platter. You must strive for a starting position on this squad, and you must fight to be in excellent physical condition and maintain focus, since these are the qualities that life will require of you.”