Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Rulani Mokwena felt disrespected at the post-match, after their 1-0 defeat to TP Mazembe in Lubumbashi.
Downs suffered their first CAF Champions League defeat of this season in a hostile Stade TP Mazembe. The African Football League champions created so many chances but failed to convert them and hit the crossbar twice. It was also Mokwena’s first CAFCL since taking over as head coach.
Mokwena was asked if he is doubting his players but the tactician quickly protected his players to the DRC media.
“I love my players, I love them even more than I loved them before the match. They’ve already proved these group of players that they are the best in the African continent,” Mokwena said.
“When they lose, we lose together. The responsibility lies on the shoulders of the coach. The players gave everything they have and I’m very proud of their effort.
“If there’s anyone to be blamed for the defeat it’s me. So no doubt on my players. So hands off.”
Things started to heat up in the press conference when DRC media asked Mokwena if they came to lose the game, and the Sundowns coach found this line of question disrespectful.
“We came here to lose the match?” Mokwena responded
“What do you mean we were not involved to score? Themba Zwane hit the crossbar in the first half, Sailor Mudau hit the upright in the second half. I mean I don’t understand. You want to tell me we came here to lose the game?.”
“That’s very very disrespectful, we don’t work hard and put so much hours to come and lose a football match.
“I find your question a little bit disrespectful. To be honest if that’s the spirit that this press conference will be in, we may as well end it.
“Because I come here with respect and humility to respect you guys and respect Mazembe, you guys shows disrespect towards the football club.”
