As two of South African football’s fiercest giants prepare to lock horns in the high-stakes MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium, former mentor Rulani Mokwena finds himself in a uniquely torn position.
Speaking to SAFJA members, the current Pyramids FC head coach admitted he is split right down the middle when it comes to supporting his former employers, Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates. However, with deep roots in both camps, Mokwena insists he will walk away satisfied regardless of the final scoreline.
“It’s very difficult for me to decide who I think will win, but I’ll be very happy at the end, for sure,” Mokwena shared. “If Sundowns win, I would be very, very happy. And if Orlando Pirates win, I will be very, very happy too.”
A History with Both Giants
Mokwena’s connection to both clubs runs deep. After serving as an assistant coach at Sundowns in the late 2010s, he made the switch to Orlando Pirates, where he stepped up into the head coach role during a brief stint. He later returned to Chloorkop in 2022 as sole head coach, dominating the DStv Premiership and adding multiple league titles to his resume.
Now managing abroad with Egypt’s Pyramids FC, the 39-year-old tactician reflected on how his perspective changes the moment he steps into the dugout as an opponent.
“The only time I don’t want Pirates or Sundowns to win is when I’m sitting, and I’m competing on the opposite bench. That’s the only time,” Mokwena explained. “When I was at Pirates, I wanted to win every time against Sundowns, even though I am a Sundowns fan. When I was at Sundowns, when we played Pirates, I wanted to win every time we played against them, even though I’m an Orlando Pirates fan.”
With the MTN8 trophy on the line, the stage is set for an epic showdown—leaving neutrals and former bosses alike waiting to see which side claims ultimate bragging rights.
