Arrows coach Mngqithi dismisses ‘big three’ exit

Golden Arrows head coach Manqoba Mngqithi has downplayed the significance of Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs crashing out of the Carling Knockout Cup, arguing that cup competitions are inherently unpredictable and don’t favour the league giants.

The elimination of both Sundowns (stunned by Marumo Gallants) and Chiefs (beaten by Stellenbosch FC), both via penalty shootouts in the first round, leaves Orlando Pirates as the only one of the traditional ‘Big Three’ remaining.

‘Reputation Means Nothing In Cup Football’: Mngqithi

Contrary to the popular narrative that Pirates now have a clear path or that the competition is easier, Mngqithi, one of the most decorated coaches in the PSL, insists the exits do not change how he views his team’s chances.

“I never look at cup competitions in that space because I always know cup competitions will always present surprises,” Mngqithi stated. “Normally, the big teams do not do as good as you would expect in the cup competitions.”

The coach highlighted that even Pirates, who have enjoyed significant recent success in cup tournaments, have had their fair share of failures.

“It’s Pirates probably in the last three years that really dominated that space. But even then, they have also been found wanting in some of the cup competitions,” he explained.

Strategy Over Stature: Mngqithi’s Cup Guideline

Mngqithi, who led Arrows to the 2009 MTN8 title, offered a clear strategy for success in knockout football, emphasising that preparation should focus on the opponent’s tactics, not their brand.

“Cup competitions you must just focus on the game that you are facing, regardless of who you are playing. Be a little bit more meticulous in looking at what do they do defensively and offensively. Then try to come up with solutions to deal with that,” he advised.

The Arrows gaffer concluded by stressing that underestimating smaller teams in a cup environment is a global mistake.

“But do not look at it as if it’s a big or a small team because cup competitions everywhere in the world are always a threat against the big teams,” he wrapped up.

Arrows are set to host TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout Cup on Sunday with kickoff set for 15:00 (SA Time).