Manqoba Mngqithi addresses showboating issue

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi has addressed the issue of showboating, explaining that he would substitute players who indulge in tricks after taking the lead.

Instead of showboating, Mngqithi prefers his team to demonstrate dominance by scoring more goals. He believes this approach is more respectful to opponents than attempting to humiliate them.

When asked about the tendency of South African teams to relax after taking the lead, Mngqithi responded, “It requires a significant paradigm shift, as our society has normalized showboating and trickery after securing a lead.”

He further explained, “People often believe that winning and performing tricks is sufficient. However, I view opponents as rivals, not enemies. The goal is to defeat them convincingly, not to humiliate them. My players rarely engage in showboating after taking the lead, as I would immediately substitute them.

What excites me is seeing the ball hit the net. I’ve always prioritized scoring goals. I became a coach to influence teams to create numerous scoring opportunities. A high-scoring game, regardless of its quality, is always thrilling. Dominating possession without creating scoring chances is meaningless.

Even when opponents employ a defensive strategy, we must find ways to break them down and score goals. As a coach, my objective is to ensure that we maximise our scoring opportunities, even against defensive tactics.”

OTHER SOCCER NEWS:Manqoba Mngqithi reveals contrasting Bafana Bafana injury news 

MANQOBA MNGQITHI EYEING CARLING CUP 

The Masandawana mentor is eyeing this weekend’s Carling Knockout Cup where they face Betway Premiership newboys Magesi FC. The two sides clash in the final of the cup competition at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein. Sundowns beat bitter rivals Kaizer Chiefs 4-0 to book a place in the quarterfinal. He then accounted for Marumo Gallants in the semi-final.  

On their way to the final, Clinton Larsen’s Magesi shocked Orlando Pirates 3-2 in the Round of 16 and will draw courage from that performance. Mngqithi, who recently took over from Rulani Mokwena, is aiming for his first title as head coach of Mamelodi Sundowns. He will pin his hopes on Brazilian forward Lucas Ribeiro Costa and Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams.