Rulani Mokwena was full of praise for his Mamelodi Sundowns side as they secured a comfortable 2-0 win over FC Nouadhibou in Mauritania on Saturday to secure a place in the CAF Champions League quarter-finals.
It was an early strike from Grant Kekana and an injury-time goal from new signing Thembinkosi Lorch that saw the Brazilians over the line and into the knock-out stages with one more game still to be played.
Speaking after the game Mokwena told the media: “It was an incredible effort from our team and players.
“I think a good performance all round in the first half with a lot of control and a lot of chances.
“In the second half, we also had a lot of control and a lot of chances, and the subs were also very good and brought good energy to the pitch.
“Nouadhibou were good opponents and very competitive. The people of Nouadhibou also received us very well and we’d like to thank them for their hospitality while we’ve been in Mauritania.
“They were worthy opponents, a difficult team.
“I said before the match it’s a team that hasn’t lost in the group stages at home and hasn’t lost in their league in 12 games at home. So it’s not easy to come here and get this result,” he said.
With one game still to go in the group the winner of the pool will be decided on Saturday when Sundowns face TP Mazembe at the FNB Stadium. Heading into the game the teams are level on points and goal difference.
Masandawana were welcomed to Mauritania by Mr Pakamisa Augustine Sifuba, Ambassador of the Embassy of South Africa in Mauritania! 👆
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) February 25, 2024
We thank the embassy for the hospitality! 🙏 #Sundowns #TotalEnergiesCAFCL pic.twitter.com/r3C6stOQNo
