Polokwane City Coach Phuti Mohafe Criticises Decision-Making After Heavy Loss to Mamelodi Sundowns

Polokwane City head coach Phuti Mohafe has openly criticised his team’s decision-making following their 3-0 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld on Sunday. The result came just days after a narrower 1-0 loss to the same opposition, but this time Rise and Shine were unable to contain Sundowns’ attacking pressure. The defeat exposed clear weaknesses in both game management and execution in key moments. Mohafe pointed out that his team created enough chances to make the match far more competitive. Instead, poor decisions at critical stages allowed Sundowns to take full control of the game.

Mohafe expressed frustration over missed opportunities that could have changed the outcome. Polokwane City missed a penalty in the second half when Puleng Marema failed to convert from the spot, a moment that shifted momentum firmly away from the visitors. The coach also highlighted a one-on-one situation where his player failed to finish against the goalkeeper, wasting another clear chance to score. He stated that the game could have ended with a much tighter scoreline if those chances were taken. According to him, the inability to remain calm under pressure cost the team valuable points. He also stressed that young players must learn from such moments, even when mistakes are costly.

A major concern for Mohafe was his team’s loss of structure during key phases of the match. He explained that Polokwane City broke their shape in midfield while chasing an equaliser, which created gaps that Sundowns exploited. The coach admitted that the desire to score quickly led to poor positioning and defensive instability. This lack of discipline allowed Sundowns to dictate play and stretch the game in their favour. He pointed out that maintaining structure is essential when playing against top opposition. Without it, even small mistakes become expensive.

Substitutions also played a role in the breakdown, according to Mohafe. He noted that changes made during the second half disrupted the team’s balance and rhythm. In particular, he felt that the substitution involving Maphangule had a negative impact on the team’s organisation. The coach said that after the changes, Polokwane struggled to maintain control in midfield and lost composure in key moments. He admitted that these tactical decisions contributed to the final result. Despite the disappointment, he described the experience as a difficult but important learning opportunity for the squad.

Polokwane City now face a demanding schedule as they look to recover from consecutive defeats. They travel to Richards Bay on 6 May at Richards Bay Stadium, followed by an away fixture against Golden Arrows on 9 May at King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium. Their final match in this stretch will be at home against Marumo Gallants on 16 May at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium. These matches will be crucial in determining their final league position and top-eight ambitions. Mohafe will be hoping his players respond with better discipline and sharper decision-making. The team now faces pressure to convert lessons into results as the season reaches its final stages.