Mamelodi Sundowns mentor Rulani Mokwena explains why the widely publicised Soweto Derby is different from the Tshwane one. As Mamelodi Sundowns prepare to meet their cross-town rivals, SuperSport United in a Tshwane Derby, coach Rulani Mokwena looks at the difference from the Soweto rivalry.
The astute manager, Mokwena believes there is a vast difference between the two rivalries shared by the big clubs in the South African top flight. Kaboyellow will meet Amatsatsantsa A Pitori as they are dominating the Tshwane Derby on Tuesday night in the DStv Premiership.
Masandawana remains unbeaten in the league after playing 17 league matches and meeting coach Gavin Hunt’s side means they will look to keep their record unbroken. The 2016 African champions, Sundowns are fresh from a 2-0 win over Chippa United on Saturday night at Lucas Moripe Stadium, Mokwena speaks about the Tshwane Derby.
This also comes after Orlando Pirates defeated rivals, Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto Derby via a 3-2 score margin last weekend.
Sundowns Boss Mokwena Looks at the Tshwane Derby
The reigning league champions coach, Mokwena says there is a difference between the Tshwane giants Sundowns and SuperSport derby. He adds that the much-publicised Soweto Derby involving Chiefs and Pirates have a lot to offer and the emotions and history make the difference.
On top of that, Mokwena and Sundowns will look to continue their winning run against a side that last beat them in the league in September 2022. “It’s difficult to compare the derbies because the Soweto derby has a lot of history, while the Tshwane derby doesn’t have much history,” Mokwena told the media.
“I think in terms of emotions, the rivalry is there. It’s a rivalry, that’s why it’s called the derby. And over the years, both teams have been extremely successful, especially in the present history. There are many trophies shared between SuperSport and Sundowns both in the league and cups. So, the prestige is there. But it’s difficult to compare because the other one [Soweto derby] has the emotions and historical background.”
“The other one is emotions from the recent success of both teams. You go to a space where you compare the Milan derby for example [AC Milan and Inter Milan], with a game between Roma and Lazio [Rome derby], it’s completely different. Of course, a derby is a derby…everyone wants to dominate and have the bragging rights of a city.”
Mokwena Reflects on Sundowns Win Over Chippa
The 37-year-old Sundowns mentor, Mokwena is not entirely happy with their display against the Chilli Boys despite the win. Sundowns bagged their 14th win courtesy of goals from Teboho Mokoena and Tashreeq Matthews saw the Tshwane giants claim yet another win.
“It was a very good team effort in the first half,” he said.
“And we were a little bit inconsistent with the performance, maybe even giving the ball away cheaply and presenting chances for Chippa. I have to thank the players for being there for the team and also being there for me because I think the first half they played was how I felt this entire week. They were there and that’s good.”
Taking a glance at Amatsatsantsa A Pitori, SuperSport is placed at number four in the log table with 22 points from 19 league matches so far.
DStv Premiership Fixtures
Tomorrow: Sundowns v SuperSport, Loftus Versfeld (7.30pm)
Nedbank Cup Fixtures
- Wednesday: AmaTuks v Swallows, Tuks (7 pm)
- Thursday: Sekhukhune v AmaZulu, Peter Mokaba Stadium (7 pm)
- Friday: Milford v Stellenbosch, Princess Magogo (7 pm)
- Saturday: Chippa v Ravens, Buffalo City (3 pm); Bay v SuperSport, King Zwelithini (3 pm); Pirates v Lions, Orlando (6 pm)
- Sunday: D’General v Galaxy, Free State, Sundowns v Maritzburg, Lucas Moripe (6 pm).
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