Former Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates midfielder Lebohang Mokoena believes the Brazilians, despite their dominance in South African football, are not without weaknesses. In fact, Mokoena argues that teams like Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates could have success against Sundowns if they identify and exploit certain areas of vulnerability in their game.
Mokoena pointed out that many local teams have failed to capitalize on the opportunity to press Sundowns high up the pitch, which is something he feels should be a focal point for their opponents. “I’ve always said this — teams here at home don’t take advantage of those key moments to really press Sundowns high up the pitch,”
According to the former midfielder, Sundowns, while undeniably a well-drilled and talented team, are not immune to making mistakes under pressure. “You could see those mistakes happening,” Mokoena added. “Some of the players, especially when they’re really pressured, don’t seem as comfortable. You could see that clearly against Raja Casablanca — there is a weakness in their game, and it’s not something that’s hidden. There’s definitely an opportunity there for teams to exploit.”

Mokoena’s observation reflects a larger truth about Sundowns’ playing style — they are known for their possession-based football and tactical discipline, but like any team, they are vulnerable when pressed aggressively. “If teams can notice that weakness, they might start thinking, ‘Let’s go pound for pound, let’s match them.’ This is the kind of strategy that could throw Sundowns off balance,” he said. 👀
He went on to explain how pressing Sundowns high up the pitch and keeping them on the back foot could eventually lead to an opening. “Yes, Sundowns will have their moments where they break through, but the key is to keep pushing them, to keep applying that pressure. Eventually, you’ll get a chance — that one opportunity where you can bury the ball in the back of the net. That could completely open up the game in your favor.”
Mokoena pointed to Raja Casablanca’s recent performance as a case study of how Sundowns’ defensive structure can be vulnerable when teams take risks and press them hard. “I think Raja showed us something important in their encounter with Sundowns. They didn’t sit back and allowed Sundowns to dominate possession. Instead, they took the game to them, and although it wasn’t an easy task, they capitalized when they had the chance.” 🥰
The former midfielder’s insights are timely, as both Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates have had their fair share of struggles against Sundowns over the years. However, Mokoena’s comments suggest that both teams, given their attacking qualities, could benefit from adopting a more proactive approach. Rather than sitting back and absorbing pressure, Chiefs and Pirates could look to disrupt Sundowns’ rhythm and force them into errors by pressing high and staying aggressive throughout the match.
Mokoena believes that teams are often too passive when facing Sundowns, letting them dominate possession and dictate the tempo of the game. But by pressing high and taking calculated risks, opponents can unsettle Sundowns and create openings. “If you keep pressing them, you might not get it right in the first few attempts, but eventually, you will get that one chance where you can score a goal, and that will force Sundowns to adjust. It could open the game wide open, and suddenly the tables could turn.”
Sundowns, as we know, thrive when they control the tempo and dictate play, so denying them that control by pressing them high up the pitch could be a crucial tactic for teams looking to succeed against them. However, Mokoena is not suggesting that this approach guarantees success, as Sundowns have the quality and experience to respond to high pressure and turn games around. But, as he pointed out, if teams stick to this strategy with intensity and determination, they could unlock a way to breach Sundowns’ usually impenetrable defense.
In conclusion, Mokoena’s analysis provides a blueprint for teams like Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, who may not always have the same level of dominance as Sundowns, but could use an aggressive and high-pressing approach to make life difficult for the Brazilians. By applying consistent pressure and not allowing Sundowns to settle into their usual rhythm, these teams might just find the chink in Sundowns’ armor that others have failed to exploit. As Mokoena said, “It’s all about finding that crack and taking your chance when it comes. That’s what could make all the difference.”