Mamelodi Sundowns Under Scrutiny Despite Leading the PSL Standings
Mamelodi Sundowns have not had an easy start to the season, but the club continues to underline why they are the most dominant team in South African football. Despite questions over their style of play and rhythm, the Tshwane giants sit on top of the Betway Premiership standings.
Sundowns endured a disrupted pre-season due to their participation in the FIFA Club World Cup. With little time to rest or regroup, the defending champions have struggled to replicate the fluid “piano and shoe shine” football that supporters have come to expect.
Former defender Siyanda Zwane believes fans have valid reasons to criticise the team’s performances. Speaking to Soccer Laduma, Zwane pointed out that expectations around Sundowns are naturally higher because of their success. “As Sundowns supporters, we have been spoilt. We know the team will dominate and play a good brand of football. Right now, that is not happening. You cannot blame supporters for pointing that out,” he said.
Zwane also noted that the team’s shift in approach can be linked to a new technical direction. “It’s no longer Rulani Mokwena or Pitso Mosimane. Cardoso is his own person and wants the team to play a certain way. Unfortunately, it is not the style that Sundowns fans grew to love,” he added.
According to Zwane, the club’s challenges did not begin this season. He believes issues were already visible during their CAF Champions League campaign. “We complained even then that Sundowns lost their identity and there was no DNA in how they played. The lack of a proper pre-season has made it worse. They don’t look fresh, but their individual brilliance keeps delivering results. You can’t blame the fans for complaining, but you also have to consider the circumstances,” he explained.
The pressure remains high on Sundowns because of their track record. Zwane stressed that success comes with expectations. “They need to keep winning because we expect Sundowns to dominate. To whom much is given, much is expected. Sundowns must conquer and win every match they play,” he said.
After missing out on the MTN8, Sundowns will turn their attention to the Carling Knockout this weekend. They face Marumo Gallants in the opening round. The Tshwane side will be determined to avoid a repeat of last season’s disappointment, when they lost the final to newcomers Magesi FC at the Free State Stadium despite taking an early lead.
All eyes will be on Sundowns as they look to balance results with the brand of football that supporters demand. For now, their ability to win without being at their best continues to separate them from the rest of the league.
