Mamelodi Sundowns may have suffered a disappointing CAF Champions League exit, but Marumo Gallants coach Ronnie Kanalelo believes the Brazilians remain the strongest side in South African football.
Sundowns’ failure to reach the CAF Champions League group stages has raised questions about their current form and ambitions on the continental stage. However, their domestic opponents should not mistake that disappointment for weakness.
Marumo Gallants coach Ronnie Kanalelo believes the setback could actually make the defending Betway Premiership champions even more dangerous as they turn their attention towards domestic football.
The Tshwane giants were left frustrated after their continental campaign ended earlier than expected, with head coach Miguel Cardoso openly describing the outcome as a failure.
Cardoso had previously enjoyed an impressive record in the competition, reaching three consecutive finals, making the early elimination particularly difficult to accept.
Nevertheless, Kanalelo believes Sundowns have enough quality and experience to recover quickly.
Kanalelo Warns PSL Rivals Against Underestimating Sundowns
Speaking ahead of Gallants’ encounter with the Brazilians, Kanalelo admitted that Sundowns’ Champions League disappointment could have created an opportunity for his team.
However, he was quick to point out that the psychological impact of elimination could work in either direction.
The Gallants coach suggested that Sundowns might approach their domestic commitments with renewed determination, especially after missing out on their continental ambitions.
He also highlighted the incredible depth within Cardoso’s squad, warning that rotating players does little to weaken the quality available to the defending champions.
According to Kanalelo, Sundowns have several players eager to establish themselves in the starting line-up, meaning squad rotation can bring additional motivation and intensity.
For opponents hoping to take advantage of the Brazilians’ disappointment, that presents another challenge.
Sundowns’ Squad Depth Remains a Major Advantage
One of the biggest strengths of Mamelodi Sundowns is the quality of players available throughout their squad.
Even when Cardoso makes several changes to his starting team, the replacements are capable of competing at the highest level.
Kanalelo acknowledged that this makes it difficult for opposition coaches to predict whether facing a rotated Sundowns side will provide any real advantage.
He also pointed out that the Brazilians have experienced setbacks before and possess the experience required to overcome difficult periods.
Gallants wanted to establish whether the Champions League elimination had affected Sundowns mentally, but Kanalelo recognised that his opponents remained a formidable force.
Marumo Gallants Look to Build Momentum
While Sundowns remain a major threat, Marumo Gallants have their own objectives as they look to improve their position in the Betway Premiership.
The team finally secured its first league victory of the season after producing an impressive comeback against Siwelele FC.
Gallants recovered from a goal behind to claim a thrilling 3-2 victory on Friday, giving the team renewed confidence after a difficult start to the campaign.
The result also provided Kanalelo’s men with an opportunity to move away from the bottom of the league standings.
Their next assignment will be against Golden Arrows, where they will attempt to build on that victory and secure consecutive league wins before the upcoming FIFA international break.
Can Sundowns Bounce Back From Their Continental Disappointment?
Despite their early Champions League elimination, Mamelodi Sundowns remain one of the most formidable teams in South African football.
Their squad depth, experience and domestic ambitions make them difficult opponents, regardless of recent setbacks.
Kanalelo’s assessment serves as a warning to the rest of the PSL: writing off Sundowns after one disappointing continental campaign could prove to be a costly mistake.
The Brazilians may have stumbled in Africa, but they remain a serious force in the race for domestic honours.
