Thabo Rakhale rates Sundowns star as his toughest defensive opponent

Former Orlando Pirates attacker Thabo Rakhale has named a Mamelodi Sundowns star as the toughest defensive opponent he has faced in the PSL.

Rakhale came up against the Tshwane giants defender during his several stints in the DStv Premiership at clubs such as Chippa United and Sekhukhune United.

The 33-year-old also enjoyed spells at Polokwane City, Orlando Pirates and Marumo Gallants, making over 200 appearances in the Premiership, scoring 13 goals and providing 16 assists.

He recently penned a deal with Botswana giants Township Rollers after spending over a year without a club.

Rakhale has already introduced himself to the Rollers supporters after scoring the winning goal against Kaizer Chiefs in a pre-season friendly match last month.

With dribbling wizard now plying his trade in Botswana, he has disclosed the defender that gave him sleepless nights in SA’s topflight.

THABO RAKHALE REVEALS TOUGHEST DEFENDER HE EVER FACED

“There are those defenders who are always difficult to face, but if I were to choose one, I’d choose Thapelo Morena,” Rakhale told FARPost.

Morena, who can also play as a right winger, is regarded as one of the best defenders in SA several titles with Sundowns, including six league titles and the CAF Super Cup. He has also represented Bafana Bafana.

“It was always a nightmare playing against him, even though I would also have my moments against him, but he’s one defender who gave me a tough time.

“He gave me a tough time when I went to him, even when I dropped back, and he’s the one who’s attacking. It was difficult chasing him because of his pace.”

Rakhale further opened up about his ambitions with Township Rollers, revealing that he wants to help the team win the league.

“When I came here, I was told that they want to have a better team than they always had in the past seasons. They haven’t won any trophy in three seasons, from what I heard,” added Rakhale.

“So even the squad we have now is good enough for us to compete for the silverware. The goal of the team is to win the league and play in the CAF Champions League next season.

“Personally, my aim is to bring positive impact to the team in terms of goals and assists. I think the goal I scored against Chiefs gave me a lot of motivation that I can still score.”

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