Amidst Their Triumphs: Rhulani Mokwena’s Quest for a Treble with Mamelodi Sundowns
As the 2023-2024 football season draws to a close, the spotlight shines brightly on Mamelodi Sundowns FC, a South African football powerhouse.
Under the astute guidance of head coach Rhulani Mokwena, the Brazilians have achieved remarkable success in both the African Football League (AFL) and the Premier Soccer League (PSL).
Now, the question on everyone’s lips is whether they can complete a historic treble by winning the Nedbank Cup.
The African Football League Triumph
The inaugural African Football League (AFL) was a momentous occasion for Mamelodi Sundowns.
The mega-wealthy tournament, sanctioned by both FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), saw the Brazilians display sparkling football.
They dispatched Angola’s Petro Atletico in the quarterfinals, Egyptian giants Al Ahly in the semis, and Moroccan powerhouse Wydad Casablanca in the final. Goals from Peter Shalulile and Aubrey Modiba secured a 2-0 victory in the second leg, clinching the AFL title with a 3-2 aggregate score.
PSL Dominance
In the PSL, Mamelodi Sundowns have been equally dominant. With a 12-point lead atop the league rankings, they clinched their seventh successive DStv Premiership title.
Their attacking prowess, led by players like Shalulile and Lucas Ribeiro, has been awe-inspiring. Despite not having a recognized striker, the team’s sacrifices and adaptability have propelled them to the top.
The Nedbank Cup Challenge
Now, the Nedbank Cup stands as the final hurdle in Sundowns’ quest for a treble. Stellenbosch FC awaits them in the semifinals. Stellies, on a remarkable 25-match unbeaten run, will be determined to halt Sundowns’ dream.
However, Mokwena’s side is undefeated in domestic competitions in regulation time this season.
The clash promises to be intense, with both teams eyeing a place in the final.
Sundowns’ injury concerns include key players like Rushine De Reuck and Teboho Mokoena, but their hunger for victory remains undiminished.
Rhulani Mokwena: The Architect
Rhulani Mokwena, often dubbed “Pep-lite” due to his admiration for Pep Guardiola’s coaching philosophy, has been the architect behind Sundowns’ success.
His tactical acumen, man-management skills, and ability to extract the best from his players have been pivotal. As the season reaches its climax, Mokwena faces the challenge of maintaining focus and ensuring his team’s hunger for silverware remains insatiable.
The Treble Dream
Should Mamelodi Sundowns emerge victorious in the Nedbank Cup, they will etch their names in South African football history.
A treble—AFL, PSL, and Nedbank Cup—would be an unprecedented achievement. The Brazilians have already secured the AFL and PSL titles, but the final piece of the puzzle awaits. .
Can Rhulani Mokwena guide his team to glory and complete a remarkable season? Football fans across the nation eagerly await the answer.
In the heart of Pretoria, at Loftus Stadium, the stage is set.
The Brazilians march forward, their eyes fixed on the Nedbank Cup trophy. Victory would not only be a celebration of their talent but also a testament to their resilience, adaptability, and unwavering spirit.
As the final whistle approaches, the echoes of “Masandawana” reverberate—a rallying cry for glory, etched in green and yellow. Rhulani Mokwena’s legacy hangs in the balance, and the football gods watch with bated breath.
Will Sundowns complete their treble? Only time will tell.