Rivaldo Coetzee Explains Why ‘Big Games’ Are Easier Than Facing PSL’s Smaller Teams

Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Rivaldo Coetzee has given insight into why facing so-called “big teams” in the DStv Premiership is sometimes easier than playing against clubs with fewer resources.

The reigning champions are on course for their eighth consecutive league title, boasting 19 wins from 23 matches. However, their rare defeats this season—against TS Galaxy, Polokwane City, and Orlando Pirates—along with a shock Carling Knockout final loss to newly-promoted Magesi FC, highlight an intriguing pattern.

Why ‘Smaller Teams’ Cause More Problems

Speaking on The Pitchside Podcast, Coetzee shared his thoughts on why Sundowns sometimes struggle against teams that aren’t title contenders.

“Big games I don’t get nervous, there are no nerves,” the former Ajax Cape Town man admitted. “In the tunnel, get on the pitch, nothing.

“But you get teams like Polokwane, I’m telling you. You know it’s going to be an effort [to beat them]. First of all, that’s the thing—you have to match their effort.

“After that, then your football ability will come through. But you know they will make you run. You are going to suffer.

“Even though we are the better team in most games, we won’t dominate the whole game. There will be times when you have to suffer,” Coetzee explained.

Winning Ugly: Sundowns’ Mentality Shift

Despite their dominance in South African football, Sundowns have had to adapt their style of play to grind out results against teams that set up defensively.

“Sometimes it’s not tiki-taka, no. If the match requires us to play in the channels, we do that,” Coetzee continued. “Fine, we play second balls, we press you and keep you in your own half.

“I think now we know how to manage them, and that’s why we are winning games.”

Manqoba Mngqithi’s Take on the Issue

Earlier this season, former Sundowns head coach Manqoba Mngqithi made a similar argument, suggesting that title rivals Orlando Pirates struggle against smaller teams due to a lack of squad depth. His comments drew criticism, but Coetzee’s statements add weight to the idea that playing against so-called “smaller” teams can be just as challenging as facing the league’s elite.

The Road Ahead for Sundowns

With the season entering its crucial stage, Sundowns will need to maintain their focus as they continue their push for domestic and continental success. Whether they face title contenders or underdogs, Coetzee’s words highlight the mindset that has kept them at the top—adapting, fighting, and finding ways to win.