Manqoba Mngqithi Begins Golden Arrows Return with a Draw Against Mamelodi Sundowns

Golden Arrows held Premier Soccer League leaders Mamelodi Sundowns to a 1-1 draw at Mpumalanga Stadium on Wednesday, marking a positive start for Manqoba Mngqithi in his third stint as head coach of Abafana Bes’thende.

How Mngqithi Stopped Sundowns

Mngqithi, who previously worked at Sundowns for a decade, used his inside knowledge to counter his former side’s strengths. Speaking after the match, he explained how his familiarity with Sundowns’ squad played a crucial role in his tactical approach.

“I think I was helped more by that [having worked with Sundowns players] because I’ve played a lot of games against Golden Arrows when I was still at Sundowns,” Mngqithi told FARPost. “I was the one preparing when we played against Arrows to make sure we were in a better space in terms of organisation because I know most of these kids.”

Despite having just two training sessions with his squad before the game, the 53-year-old coach managed to implement a new 4-3-3 system, a formation Arrows had not been using. He was impressed by how quickly his players adapted.

“They have not been playing a 4-3-3 formation, and I was so impressed to see them adapt so quickly and really trying to stamp their authority,” he added. “We didn’t capitalise in trying to be a little bit more incisive in getting into more dangerous positions, but we only got a lot of good moments in transition.”

A Promising Start for Arrows

Although the draw extended Arrows’ winless run in the league to five matches, holding the defending champions is a sign of progress. Mngqithi’s return has already sparked optimism that the club, currently in 11th place, can push for a top-eight finish.

With his vast experience from his years at Sundowns, where he was exposed to high-level football, his influence could be crucial in transforming Arrows’ fortunes.

What’s Next for Mngqithi and Arrows?

Golden Arrows will not be in action this weekend due to their elimination from the Nedbank Cup but will return to the field on March 12 against Polokwane City.

Mngqithi will be hoping that the confidence gained from their strong performance against Sundowns will serve as a foundation for an improved run in the league.