Glamour Boys, Citizens and Brazilians in turmoil
Mzansi football witnessed a weekend of high drama and disappointment, highlighted by Kaizer Chiefs' troubling 2-0 defeat to unheralded Polokwane City, and Cape Town Spurs' worrying drop into the relegation zone. As the competitive spirit heats up, the pressure mounts on coaches and clubs alike, writes Herman Gibbs.
Nabi lambasts refs and match officials
Following the loss to Polokwane City, Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi did not hold back in his criticism of match officials. He expressed his frustration at the perceived failure of referees to protect his players, pointing out "unfair decisions" that contributed to Chiefs' disappointing performance.
"Half of my squad is in hospital, and all is good for referees," Nabi lamented, highlighting concerns over player safety.
The stand-in captain, Inacio Miguel, currently nursing four yellow cards and a red card, was a prime example of a player who could have been better protected during the match.
Where was Tito? Nonplussed Riveiro adds to the intrigue
An intriguing subplot unfolded at the Orlando Stadium as questions arose regarding Patrick 'Tito' Maswanganyi's absence from the Pirates’ match-day squad against Al Ahly in the CAF Champions League.
Coach Jose Riveiro's vague explanation, indicating he could not speak about the player's health, only amplified speculation. The situation drew parallels with Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi’s previous management of players facing prolonged absences, suggesting Maswanganyi may be dealing with fitness issues.
Spurs in free fall, on the brink of disaster
Over in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, Cape Town Spurs' woes deepened with a ninth consecutive match without a win, following a 1-0 loss to Highbury at Gelvandale Stadium.
Sitting precariously in 14th place and level on points with the second-from-bottom Leruma United, the Urban Warriors seem to be on a downward spiral. Despite the club's faith in German coach Ernst Middendorp, history shows that he has yet to navigate a club through such troubled waters in the First Division.
Bafana Ba Style are looking forward to the Club World Cup! 🌍👆
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) December 9, 2024
Excitement all around! Hear from our boys as they shared their thoughts on the exciting #FIFACWC draw! 🎙🙌#Sundowns #TakeItToTheWorld pic.twitter.com/XMNgu6cGL8
Sundowns coach Mngqithi vows: 'We can do better'
In contrast, Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi remains optimistic despite his team’s lacklustre start in the CAF Champions League, drawing their first two matches.
He believes they are on a path to improvement and sent a clear message to Moroccan side Raja Casablanca ahead of their home clash, stating, “At home, it’s always going to be difficult for any other opponents that play against us.”
Many fans are rallying behind Mngqithi's message of hope, even as he faces significant scrutiny online.
🗣️ "The focus is on where we are now and achieving results. We genuinely care about this club, and everyone is putting in the hard work to get things right. It’s challenging, but we must stay united." say captain, Thami Mkhize#iamCityFC pic.twitter.com/coIcKB8QZ2
— Cape Town City FC (@CapeTownCityFC) December 9, 2024
Cape Town City feeling the heat
Meanwhile, Cape Town City are also facing mounting pressure following their latest 1-0 defeat to Sekhukhune United, marking the team's fourth consecutive loss.
The fans have expressed their discontent on social media, calling for club boss John Comitis to consider a coaching change. Despite the bleak results, the club maintains confidence that they can turn their fortunes around, attributing some struggles to the integration of new players and injuries.