Ex-Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena could hide his heartfelt connection to his former players

Rulani Mokwena’s love for the club that once played a pivotal role in his career was evident, despite his efforts to uphold a professional demeanour.

During the weekend match in which Mokwena’s Algerian team faced Mamelodi Sundowns, his previous connections with the players became apparent both during the game and in the aftermath.

Even while maintaining a professional stance, Mokwena chose not to disregard the strong bond he has with the players who contributed to his significant accomplishments, including a prestigious continental league title that resonated across Africa.

Once a Brazilian, always a …

Rulani Mokwena’s affection for the club that played a pivotal role in his career was evident over the weekend, even as he maintained a professional demeanour.

During MC Alger’s clash with Mamelodi Sundowns, Mokwena’s connection with his former players shone through both on the pitch and afterwards. The encounter provided a perfect backdrop for his unexpected gesture towards substitute Themba Zwane late in the match, highlighting a bond that extends well beyond professional obligations.

Huge praise for Mokwena

Miguel Cardoso, Sundowns’ Portuguese tactician, lauded Mokwena’s tactical planning following the match.

‘I must admit, I was impressed,’ Cardoso said. ‘Rhulani has crafted a solid game plan that made it very difficult for us to implement our strategy. They pressed us well and had us on the back foot. It was clear that they came into this game fully prepared.’

Chiefs enjoy Maradona-like luck

Kaizer Chiefs defender Dillian Solomons played a part in a dramatic late equaliser against Egyptian giants Zamalek.

Six minutes into injury time, Solomons’ cross led to an own goal by Zamalek goalkeeper Mohamed Sobhy, reminiscent of Diego Maradona’s infamous ‘hand of God’. The goal allowed Chiefs to salvage a 1-1 draw.

Smiling assassin

Gambian referee Lamin Jammeh awarded Singida Black Stars a stoppage-time penalty against Stellenbosch FC in Zanzibar, smiling as he pointed to the spot.

While the penalty seemed justified, Stellenbosch players had earlier been denied an obvious penalty. In his last 16 games, Jammeh has averaged 4.13 yellow cards per match, yet he refrained from issuing any during a game marred by Stars’ rough play.

Hardly mellow yellow

Orlando Pirates attacker Patrick ‘Tito’ Maswanganyi will miss Saturday’s Carling Knockout final against Marumo Gallants after receiving his fourth yellow card in a 2-0 Betway Premiership win over Durban City.

Maswanganyi scored the Buccaneers’ second goal following a perfectly timed pass from Oswin Appollis but was substituted later in the match. Pirates will now enter the final without one of their most industrious forwards, having already lifted the MTN8 title earlier this season.