Still proud of players despite penalty shoot-out loss – Sundowns coach

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has praised the performance of his troops despite losing 3-1 to Orlando Pirates on penalties in the MTN8 final on Saturday evening.

The sold-out affair played at Moses Mabhida stadium was deadlocked goalless after extra time, yet highly competitive.

Despite the disappointment, Mokwena took pride in the effort of his charges.

“Congratulations to Pirates on being crowned champions; it is only fitting that we extend our congratulations. We are also immensely proud of our players and the dedication and talent they exhibited throughout the game.”

Mokwena said his team had numerous opportunities to secure victory but failed to convert.

“The management and technical staff are exceptionally proud of their performance.

“In times of defeat, the coaches must take responsibility and I am the first to raise my hand and accept any blame,” he said.

Bafana Ba Style were without the in-form Lucas Ribeiro Costa, who failed to recover from injury ahead of the massive clash.

Nevertheless, Mokwena chose to focus on the positives.

“It is a pity, but the team gave it their all. The medical team worked tirelessly to get Ribeiro back to fitness, but he was not able to make it.”

Mokwena said the team are determined to concentrate on the positives, and the positive aspect is that this team gave their best effort.

“We will bounce back… it is a difficult one to digest, but the team will always find a way to recover. We extend our apologies to our supporters and the yellow nation family.”

Mokwena said there are still many trophies to compete for and plenty of games ahead.

In Robeiro’s absence, Neo Maema was given a place in attack alongside Peter Shalulile and Themba Zwane and Mokwena insists he was impressed by his performance.

“Maema was good and like all the players, he gave his best. Modiba was also impressive.”

He said both excelled in the positions they were asked to play.

“Once again, I am proud of the team and their efforts. We win as a team, we lose as a team and that is the most important message,” said Mokwena.

WATCH:

Now THAT was a final that truly embodied the #WafaWafa spirit 🏆🥵

Who’s coming for the Amabakhaniya throne in 2024? 👀🏴‍☠️#MTN8 pic.twitter.com/uH9eiX8Ybu

— MTN8 Wafa Wafa! (@MTN8) October 11, 2023

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