Why Mamelodi Sundowns Fired Manqoba Mngqithi Amid Player Division and Outdated Tactics
Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club made headlines recently after parting ways with Manqoba Mngqithi, who had been at the helm for just six months. The club’s decision, which came ahead of their crucial CAF Champions League clash against Raja Casablanca, has been attributed to Mngqithi’s divisive tactics and a departure from the team’s successful football philosophy.
What Happened?
Mngqithi stepped into the head coach role following Rhulani Mokwena’s departure but failed to meet the club’s expectations. His tenure was marked by a shift to a faster, counter-attacking style of football, which critics, including former Sundowns player Page Mahlangu, deemed outdated and disruptive.
The management’s decision to replace Mngqithi with Portuguese tactician Miguel Cardoso reflects their commitment to restoring the club’s possession-based philosophy, popularly known as the “Shoeshine and Piano” style.
Mahlangu’s Take
Page Mahlangu did not hold back in his criticism of Mngqithi’s approach. Speaking to the media, he pointed out that the coach’s tactics alienated players and strayed too far from the club’s identity:
“Manqoba ruined everything by introducing this fast approach to football. It divided the players. Nowadays, everybody is going for positional football,” Mahlangu said.
He also highlighted how the previous coaches, Pitso Mosimane and Rhulani Mokwena, brought consistent success and happiness to the Motsepe family through possession-based football. According to Mahlangu, the return to this style under Cardoso is essential for the club’s future.
Why Was Mngqithi Fired?
- Tactical Misalignment: Mngqithi’s fast, counter-attacking style clashed with Sundowns’ established philosophy of possession football.
- Dressing Room Division: Reports suggest Mngqithi lost the players’ trust by publicly blaming individuals for losses.
- Failure to Adapt: In a football world increasingly dominated by positional play, Mngqithi’s tactics appeared outdated.
Cardoso’s Arrival
Miguel Cardoso, known for his experience with African giants like Esperance, has been tasked with reinvigorating the team. Fans and management alike expect him to bring a tactical approach that emphasizes fluidity, possession, and creativity.
Cardoso’s appointment is seen as a step toward not just reclaiming local dominance but also making a serious push for the CAF Champions League title.
What’s Next for Sundowns?
Sundowns are set to face Raja Casablanca on Sunday in a high-stakes CAF Champions League match. The game will be an early test of Cardoso’s ability to unify the team and implement his philosophy under pressure.
The expectations are high, with fans eager for a return to the style of play that once made Sundowns one of Africa’s most entertaining teams. Victory in this match could be the first step toward restoring confidence and momentum as the club eyes continental glory, a feat they last achieved in 2016.
The Bigger Picture
Mngqithi’s departure underscores the high standards at Mamelodi Sundowns. The club’s commitment to excellence is evident in their swift decision to pivot back to a style of play that aligns with their identity. With Miguel Cardoso at the helm, the focus is on unity, innovation, and a return to the top of African football.
Sundowns fans are hopeful that the new chapter will bring not just success but also the beautiful football they’ve come to expect from Masandawana.
