Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Rulani Mokwena has praised Peter Shalulile for stepping up to the take the penalty in their Nedbank Cup semi-final, even though he ended up missing the target.
Shalulile, 30, had scored his first two goals in domestic football in 2024 in their 5-1 win over Kaizer Chiefs and looked primed to add another in the Nedbank Cup semi-final against Stellies.
However, he fired over the bar, but Mokwena still hailed his mental strength after the match.
“I think we got the tactics right, the game became a bit complicated after we missed the penalty,” Mokwena said.
“It’s bitter-sweet, I look at it and say to myself I want us to score the penalty and I’m very proud of Peter, with a very difficult [scoring] run still putting up his hand saying he wants to take it.
“I’m very proud of him showing that mentality but I’m more proud of this football team and group of player.
“When I say to you they are good human beings this is exactly what I mean. They sacrifice the penalty and say let’s give it to Peter.
“It shows what type of group we have and the type of players we have, I’m very proud of them demonstrating that selflessness, that brotherhood to try and get Peter on the scoresheet.
“So his confidence can improve, get better. This is an amazing group of players and I’m very proud of them.”
Sundowns are back in action on Wednesday, when they will face former coach Steve Komphela and his Golden Arrows side.
