Sixth title on the trot for Sundowns: Mokwena reflects on coaching journey

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has reflected on his coaching journey in the DStv Premiership, describing it as ‘educational’.

Mokwena guided Sundowns to their sixth successive league title this season after taking over as sole head coach. He had previously shared the responsibility with Manqoba Mngqithi.

After SuperSport United failed to beat Chippa United, Sundowns were confirmed champions while they were busy preparing for their last Group B Champions League game.

A 2-1 win over Coton Sport of Cameroon saw them finish top of Group B, while Egypt’s Al Ahly finished second after a 4-0 smashing of Sudan’s Al Hilal.

Looking back, it has not been a smooth road for Mokwena. He had unsuccessful spells at Orlando Pirates and Chippa United, respectively, which made his stay short.

After returning to Sundowns, things took a positive turn. Mokwena showed his class after being appointed the sole head coach in October 2022, with Mgqithi being demoted to third in charge.

The 36-year-old coach is yet to taste defeat in 21 matches in all competitions he has been in charge of. He registered 18 victories and three draws.

RULANI MOKWENA ON HIS COACHING JOURNEY

“It’s educational in the sense that life has its ups and downs. Life has its moments where perseverance is needed,” said Mokwena.

“It has its moments where in failure, there is a lot of education. Every successful man or woman on this planet has a story that involves moments of hardship and failure. It is those moments that make us who we are.

“I may not have too many failures, but when you have failed in your life, you only succeed because of the people around you and because of God’s grace and favour. Hardships are preparations for better success.

SUNDOWNS SUPPORT

Mokwena further attributed his success to the entire Mamelodi Sundowns club, thanking their support.

“I’m just fortunate at this point in time I have a squad of very good players. I’m at a very good club that has support structures.

“The focus is to try help this club, try to make this football club better than we found it. It’s a hard task, with a lot of pressure, it has got a lot of expectations,” he added.

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