Former Mamelodi Sundowns and Malawi international Ernest Mtawali believes the reason his former side struggles in the MTN 8 is a matter of focus and priorities.
Sundowns have dominated the league for seasons and have won eight titles in a row, however the MTN 8 has been eluding them for seasons with their last title coming in 2021, while last season, they exited at the semi-finals stage.
Today, they welcome Richards Bay in the quarter-finals at the Lucas Moripe Stadium
Mtawali told IDiski Times senior writer Matshelane Mamabolo in edition 215 of the newspaper that with the depth they have the Brazilians should be winning a lot of trophies.
“I think it’s about focus,” Mtawali told iDiski Times.
“They always seem to prioritise the league and continental competitions. Maybe that’s why they fall short in the MTN8.
“But with their squad depth, they should be doing better. I believe Sundowns are the kind of team that always wants to win a lot of trophies, and the good thing is that they’ve got Miguel Cardoso, their coach, who is now used to the club.
“He will want to see the team starting the season well, and they will be confident after playing in the FIFA Club World Cup.”
Mtawali warned against underestimating the Natal Rich Boys, saying there is some experience in the side that has potential to cause Sundowns problems.
“Nothing comes easy in this competition,” added Mtawali.
“They will find that Richards Bay are not a walkover. Yes, they’ve lost that youngster [Yanela Mbuthuma], but they have reinforced by signing Malawian international Gabadinho Mhango – he is a good signing for them because the guy can score goals, and he will make it hard for Sundowns.”
You can read Mtawali’s comments on Sundowns’ 2025 MTN 8 campaign in Mamabolo’s feature in edition 215 when you subscribe to IDiski Times media WhatsApp number for FREE.
