Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has highlighted Mothobi Mvala’s unique qualities that make him a great defender.
Mothobi Mvala alongside Khuliso Mudau was a notable absentee as Sundowns defeated Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 on Saturday at a packed Lucas Moripe Stadium in the second leg of the MTN8 semi-final.
The centre-back’s unavailability and Mudau’s was due to accumulating four yellow cards in all competitions so far this season.
The Bafana Bafana international has been Rulani Mokwena’s trusted man at the heart of Sundowns’ defence.
In addition, Mothobi Mvala has been one of the standout performers for the Tshwane giants this campaign.
He is slowly returning to his best following his costly blunder last season [scoring an own goal] against Moroccan powerhouse Wydad AC that eliminated Bafana Ba Style out of the CAF Champions League semi-finals.
According to the Mamelodi Sundowns mentor, Mvala is not only good at defending but also good on set pieces.
MVALA’S UNIQUE QUALITIES PRAISED BY SUNDOWNS COACH MOKWENA
“Mothobi has become so important for us not just from a building perspective and his ability to find the person the next line,” said Mokwena after the victory over Chiefs.
“He helps us beat the press, but the physicality on set pieces, the physicality on the one-on-one.”
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The 29-year-old has been solid and consistent each time he is given the opportunity to represent Sundowns. All-in-all, the former Highlands Parks FC captain has made eight appearances in all competitions and registered one assist in the process.
To add, Mvala has helped the Brazilians to keep six clean sheets. On the other hand, Mokwena described Mudau as a ‘specimen’ with unbelievabke qualities as a full back.
“Losing Mudau is massive; he defends well, he has speed and power, and he attacks well.”