Nadim Lukhele, a noted football analyst, has criticized Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane for allegedly favouring Mamelodi Sundowns in the lead-up to their MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates.
Lukhele contends that Mosimane misled Orlando Pirates regarding the fitness of Sundowns players Teboho Mokoena and Aubrey Modiba, claiming they were injured while participating in national duty. This, according to Lukhele, allowed Sundowns to prepare more thoroughly for the final.
The match concluded with Sundowns defeating Pirates 2-0 at Moses Mabhida Stadium, where Mokoena scored the initial goal, followed by Iqraam Rayners converting a penalty in stoppage time.
In a recent podcast discussion, Lukhele emphasized the significance of Mokoena’s participation in the match.
“Pirates have done well in cup competitions. But now their run has come to an end. We have a new champion called Mamelodi Sundowns,” Lukhele stated.
He questioned the actions that led Sundowns to victory, specifically addressing the management of national team players by Mosimane.
“But what is it that Sundowns did correctly to win the game? That is what I want to highlight.
“One, I think Pitso Mosimane played a huge role in deciding this final. This is why I didn’t want Pitso to be Bafana Bafana coach…”
Lukhele further accused Mosimane of dishonesty concerning the players’ injuries.
“Look, he lied. He said Mokoena and Modiba were injured. Those guys never looked like they were injured.
“He rested them for two weeks for this game. Who scored the first goal? Mokoena, who contained Pirates and put pressure? It was Mokoena.”
According to Lukhele, Mokoena’s presence in the midfield provided Sundowns with a critical advantage against the Pirates.
“Mokoena really showed his class, that when he is on the pitch he is something else. It was always going to be the case.
“If Mokoena is there, Pirates were always going to be in trouble. If he was not there, Pirates would have a less experienced midfield to deal with.”
Lukhele’s assertions remain his personal views. Mosimane had indicated earlier that there was a need to protect players in preparation for the final and noted that managing injuries was part of his decision-making process.
