Kaizer Chiefs defender Thabiso Monyane applauded the coaches and his team for executing their game plan against Mamelodi Sundowns, while also downplaying the perceived over-the-top physicality in the clash.
Chiefs once again caused some twists in the title race after holding Sundowns to a 1-1 draw.
Amakhosi drew first blood through Flavio da Silva before Bryan Leon scored the equalizer in the second half, but before all that, the game was quite physical with tackles flying at will.
Sundowns defender Keanu Cupido was stretchered off after a kick from Chiefs midfielder Siphesihle Ndlovu, while minutes later, Mduduzi Shabalala was also stretchered off after a bad tackle from Jayden Adams.
Ndlovu appeared lucky to remain on the pitch as he kept committing fouls, while Adams was shown a second yellow card after simulation in the second half – but Sundowns managed to hold on for a draw.
Monyane, after being named Man of the Match, mentioned that football is a physical game and also praised referee Luxolo Badi.
“I mean, football is a physical game. That’s why there’s a referee,” Monyane told SuperSportTV. “I think the referee handled the game very well, and kudos to him.”
The former Orlando Pirates defender also explained how they managed to contain Sundowns’ attack, stating that they had to block where the danger was.
“Basically, not allowing them to play, because we knew they are a ball-playing team, so we knew that we shouldn’t give them too much space,” he continued.
“And we just applied pressure on them and blocked where they are most lethal. So I think there was a plan well executed, and I’m just happy that we got another result.”
