Tiyani Mabunda Defends Mamelodi Sundowns After ‘Easier to Play Against’ Remark

Mamelodi Sundowns, the undisputed dominant force in South African football, have often faced criticism despite their sustained success. Recently, Polokwane City head coach Phuti Mohafe made a surprising statement, suggesting that playing against Sundowns is easier than facing Orlando Pirates. His claim has sparked debates across the local football scene, prompting a strong response from Tiyani Mabunda, a former Sundowns midfielder and club legend.

In a discussion on the 🎙Pitchside Podcast, Mabunda offered his perspective, dismissing the notion that Masandawana are “easier to play against” and instead framing such claims as an opportunity for the team to prove their dominance.

🗣 “I honestly feel like it puts us in a position where we are able to show who we are and able to rise to the occasion. I remember every time when we had that season of transition, that was the same talk, that Sundowns are beatable, people can play against them.”

Mabunda, who remains deeply connected to the club as an ambassador, further referenced Sundowns’ coaching staff and tactical evolution, cautioning PSL teams not to underestimate Miguel Cardoso’s squad, which remains well-structured despite recent managerial shifts.

In this article, we take an in-depth look at:
✅ Mohafe’s statement and its implications
✅ Mabunda’s defense of Sundowns
✅ Why teams struggle to stop Masandawana
✅ The role of Rhulani Mokwena, Manqoba Mngqithi, and Miguel Cardoso
✅ Sundowns’ response to criticism over the years

Jose Riveiro Explains Orlando Pirates’ Lack of January Signings Ahead of Soweto Derby

Mohafe’s Controversial Take: Are Sundowns Really Easier to Face?

Polokwane City head coach Phuti Mohafe recently stirred up controversy by comparing the difficulty of playing against Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns. He suggested that facing Pirates presents more tactical challenges than playing against Sundowns, an assertion that many within the South African football community, including Mabunda, strongly disagree with.

While Mohafe did not discredit Sundowns’ success, his comments implied that Pirates pose a greater challenge in terms of gameplay. His remarks quickly ignited debates on various platforms, with fans and analysts questioning the basis of his opinion.

Sundowns have been the most dominant force in South African football for over a decade, winning seven consecutive DStv Premiership titles and consistently competing in the CAF Champions League. So, if anything, they should be the more difficult team to beat, right?

Jose Riveiro Explains Orlando Pirates’ Lack of January Signings Ahead of Soweto Derby

Mabunda Fires Back: Why Sundowns Thrive Under Criticism

Sundowns Have Always Proven Doubters Wrong

Tiyani Mabunda’s response to Mohafe’s claims was measured yet firm. As someone who played a crucial role in Sundowns’ golden era, he understands firsthand how criticism fuels the team’s success.

🗣 “Every time there’s a season of transition, people say Sundowns are beatable. And yet, season after season, they prove otherwise.”

Mabunda highlighted that these kinds of remarks are not new to Sundowns. Over the years, critics have questioned their dominance, often labeling them as a team that is “beatable” or “vulnerable.” However, time and again, Masandawana have responded by winning trophies and setting new standards in the PSL.

Why Are Sundowns Perceived Differently?

One reason some teams may feel more comfortable against Sundowns than Pirates could be the structure of their playing style.

🔹 Sundowns dominate possession – Unlike Pirates, who often play with a fast-paced, counter-attacking approach, Sundowns focus on patient build-up play and controlling the game.

🔹 Teams sit deep against Sundowns – Since Sundowns hold the ball for long periods, opposition teams tend to drop deep and defend compactly, which can create a false sense of control for the opposition.

🔹 Pirates exploit transitions – On the other hand, Orlando Pirates thrive in chaotic, transition-based games, making them appear more difficult to contain, especially for teams that play an open style.

However, this does not mean Sundowns are easier to beat. In fact, their dominance in South African football suggests the exact opposite.

Nasreddine Nabi Expresses Joy Over Long-Awaited Signing: “We Finally Got Our Man!”

The Coaching Influence: Sundowns’ Tactical Superiority

Rhulani Mokwena & Manqoba Mngqithi’s Tactical Brilliance

Mabunda made sure to mention former coaches Rhulani Mokwena and Manqoba Mngqithi, emphasizing that their contributions have built a strong tactical foundation for the club.

🔸 Mokwena’s innovative tactics revolutionized the way Sundowns play, making them the most technically and tactically advanced team in South Africa.
🔸 Mngqithi’s tactical discipline helped Sundowns control games and maintain an elite defensive record.

Both coaches played key roles in shaping Sundowns’ current identity, making them the benchmark of South African football.

Miguel Cardoso: The Next Chapter for Masandawana

With Miguel Cardoso now in charge, many are curious to see how Sundowns will evolve. Mabunda remains confident that the club’s structure and tactical philosophy will continue to thrive, regardless of personnel changes.

🗣 “People have doubted Sundowns before, but the club keeps proving them wrong. The team’s identity remains intact, and Miguel Cardoso will only build on that.”

Cardoso, a coach known for his meticulous planning and tactical adaptability, is expected to continue Sundowns’ dominance both domestically and in Africa.

Why PSL Teams Struggle Against Sundowns

Despite some critics claiming Sundowns are “easier to play against,” their record tells a different story. Here’s why:

📌 Unmatched squad depth – Sundowns have the strongest squad in the PSL, allowing them to rotate players without dropping quality.

📌 Control of possession – Their ability to dictate the tempo makes it difficult for opposition teams to impose their game plan.

📌 Defensive solidity – With a well-organized defense, Sundowns are extremely difficult to break down.

📌 Winning mentality – Years of success have instilled a champion’s mindset, meaning Sundowns rarely panic under pressure.

📌 CAF Champions League experience – Playing against Africa’s best teams has given Sundowns a level of tactical maturity that no other PSL team possesses.

These factors make it clear: Mamelodi Sundowns remain the toughest team to beat in South African football.

Conclusion: Sundowns Will Continue to Prove Their Critics Wrong

Phuti Mohafe’s claim that Orlando Pirates are a tougher team to play against than Mamelodi Sundowns has sparked an important debate. However, Tiyani Mabunda’s response perfectly encapsulates Sundowns’ mentality—they embrace criticism and use it as motivation to keep winning.

Mabunda’s key takeaways:
✅ Sundowns have been doubted before, but they always prove people wrong
✅ They are not “easier” to play against, as their record and dominance show
✅ Their squad, tactical approach, and experience make them the best in South Africa
✅ New coach Miguel Cardoso will only strengthen the team further

As the new season progresses, all eyes will be on Masandawana to see how they respond to these statements. But history has shown that when people write them off, they respond with silverware.

💬 What do you think? Are Sundowns easier to play against than Orlando Pirates? Let us know your thoughts!