The demanding schedule faced by Mamelodi Sundowns compelled Rulani Mokwena to rotate his squad for the CAF Champions League group stage opener against FC Nouadhibou on Sunday. Despite the Mauritanian team’s inability to match the Brazilians, Mokwena could afford to keep captain Themba Zwane and reigning PSL Footballer of the Season Teboho Mokoena on the bench.
With a Tshwane derby against SuperSport United in the DStv Premiership on Wednesday night and a subsequent Champions League clash against TP Mazembe in the Democratic Republic of Congo three days later, Sundowns are swiftly shifting focus.
Mokwena disclosed, “I spent the majority of the offseason at Chloorkop and I went through all our games. There are three things I spoke to the team about, and one of them was rotation.” He expressed uncertainty about the suitability of rotation in prominent clubs due to cohesion and chemistry concerns, referencing instances of dropped points last season when extensive rotation occurred.
He emphasized the need for all squad members to contribute, stating, “If we have a squad of 36 players, then all 36 must contribute. Last season we had 36 players, and we used only 35, and only one didn’t get game time. If we are going to have a squad like this, then people have to play because they are contributing to the success of the team.”
Mokwena acknowledged the challenging week ahead, managing domestic and Champions League commitments, and stressed the importance of meticulous preparation and hard work. Despite the difficulties, he expressed satisfaction that the team maintains high standards in such situations. Looking forward, he emphasized the need for recovery and focus on the upcoming matches, starting with the challenging encounter against SuperSport United.
Main image: SowetanLIVE
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