Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Rhulani Mokwena has described the recent working trip to the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar as a great success.
Mokwena together with his technical team members Steve Komphela, Manqoba Mngqithi and Wendell Robinson spent a few days in Qatar.
They were able to watch over 17 matches in just five days and met some of the world-renowned coaches.
The Sundowns coaches have now returned to South Africa as they prepare for the resumption of the domestic season end of December.
RULANI MOKWENA GRATEFUL
“We thank the club, the president, Chairman and the Motsepe Family for the privilege that they bestowed upon us,” he told the club’s media department.
“To send us on the trip and to give us an opportunity to not just witness history being made but also learn from some of the best coaches.
“Some of the best football players and some of the best technicians.
“We got an opportunity to watch 17 games in five days which was a very difficult thing to do in attending four matches per day.
“But it’s something that, myself and the rest of the technical team had to do.
“We met Gregg (Berhalter), the coach of the USA. Met the technical director of FIFA. We were privileged enough to experience these things.
“For sure we can summarise it by saying it was a great success,” he added.
MOKWENA ON LAST 16 TEAMS
Mokwena also shared his views on the global showpiece and said he is not surprised that the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champions made it to the knockout stage.
“I am not surprised Senegal are through. They were very good against Holland; I think for me it was probably the best game,” said Mokwena.
“They picked up points two games after but I think their performance against Holland was superb.
“Credit needs to go to coach (Aliou) Cisse for what was a very well coached team and extremely well drilled.
“For me no surprises, for me Spain is one of the best teams at the moment. France is one of the best teams at the World Cup.
“The Dutch have played extremely well. So far without knowing what is going to happen tonight so far, no surprises.”
The Tshwane giants will return to league action with a clash against Orlando Pirates on the 31st of December.
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