CAFCL: Back at Loftus: Rulani Mokwena opens up on facing Sundowns

The prodigal son returns. For the first time since his high-profile departure from Chloorkop, Rulani Mokwena will step into Loftus Versfeld Stadium on the “wrong” side of the dugout.

Now leading Algerian giants MC Alger, Mokwena faces his greatest tactical test yet: a “win-or-go-home” CAF Champions League clash against his former employers, Mamelodi Sundowns, on Saturday afternoon.

The stakes couldn’t be higher. With both teams eyeing a spot in the quarter-finals, this Matchday 6 Group C showdown is effectively a knockout game. For Mokwena—a man who delivered two league titles and the African Football League trophy to Masandawana—returning to Tshwane is a moment of professional and personal significance.

Despite stints at Wydad AC before landing in Algiers, this marks the first time Mokwena will face the Yellow Nation on their home turf.

‘WE CONTROL OUR DESTINY’, SAYS RULANI MOKWENA AS HE RETURNS TO LOFTUS

Speaking ahead of the clash in a press conference at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Friday afternoon Mokwena acknowledged the difficulty of facing the reigning finalists but praised his squad’s resilience after a shaky start to the group stages.

“Fascinating journey with a new team,” Mokwena said. “We’ve earned the right to come into the last game with the possibility to qualify for the knockout. You must give credit to the players after coming back from no wins in the opening three games.”

The ex-Orlando Pirates coach, known for his meticulous preparation, is under no illusions about the quality waiting for him at Loftus.

“Now we control our own destiny. We know it’s a team who was in the final last season—a very good side. It’s an away match, but we believe in ourselves, our group, and our work. It will be a difficult test, but we have a great team with a great spirit.”

Mokwena’s return comes at a time of reported “turmoil” within the Sundowns camp following allegations of information leaks. Whether this plays into the hands of the man who knows the Sundowns “blueprint” better than anyone remains to be seen.