By Michael Madyira
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rhulani Mokwena has conceded that his men are exhausted after a recent dip in form.
The Brazilians laboured to a 4-3 penalty shootout victory over University of Pretoria to reach the Nedbank Cup semi-final on Friday.
They were restricted to a 1-1 draw after extra time and needed the lottery kicks to get to the last four.
It was another difficult outing for the Brazilians who have been struggling to beat opponents in recent games.
In a season where they have been balancing responsibilities between the Premier Soccer League, African Football League, MTN8, Carling Knockout, CAF Champions League and the Nedbank Cup, Mokwena cites fatigue for their recent struggles.
“You are allowed to feel tired, feel grumpy, worn down because you are a human being and not a robot,” Mokwena told the media.
“I spend too much time on the team and it’s the same with players. They are allowed to feel like that.”
“I have to deal with their mood swings, their tiredness and their grumpiness.”
“At this moment in time, we just keep going because no one cares and I said this the last time that no one cares. Who cares that I am feeling tired? No one cares.”
The Brazilians are still bidding for a record-extending seventh PSL title while also competing for the Champions League title.
While they seem to have wrapped up the PSL crown, they are in the Champions League semi-final and will face Tunisian giants Esperance.
They have pressure to do well on the continent and beating Esperance will help them qualify for the 2025 Fifa Club World Cup.
Pictured above: Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rhulani Mokwena
Image source: Mamelodi Sundowns
