Kaizer Chiefs manager Molefi Ntseki has rebuffed the notion that Mamelodi Sundowns “outplayed” his team following their 1-1 draw in the MTN8 Cup semi-final first-leg showdown over the weekend.
Chiefs were held to a 1-1 draw by Sundowns at FNB Stadium on Saturday, with Khuliso Mudau netting a late equalizer after Edson Castillo had given the home side the lead.
Sundowns dominated possession, boasting 73% of the ball during the 90 minutes, while Chiefs held only 27%.
Moreover, the Brazilians took 21 shots at goal, with six on target, in contrast to Chiefs’ four shots, with just one finding the mark.
“In the first half, our plan was not to concede possession to Sundowns,” Ntseki asserted, when asked by media. “When it comes to suggestions that we were outclassed and outplayed, it boils down to possession – possession that didn’t significantly harm us.
“In the initial half, despite their higher possession, they managed just two shots at goal. Although we struggled to create goal-scoring opportunities, which is a major concern.
Kaizer Chiefs coach Molefi Ntseki analyses Mamelodi Sundowns. pic.twitter.com/S6ImgGdsAF
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“Our issue was the frequent turnovers. We had numerous turnovers that could have been used to exploit Sundowns on the counter, but we rushed those moments. Instead of opting for a second pass or touch, we hurried forward, eroding our players’ confidence.
“Undoubtedly, we were well aware of Sundowns’ possession-based strategy and their collective pressing when out of possession. However, their vulnerabilities lay on the flanks, and our plan was to swiftly combine passes after regaining possession, altering our point of attack.
“The main problem lay with us. Whenever we regained possession, we failed to find these options, instead attempting to dribble through or carry the ball, ultimately surrendering possession once more.”
The Soweto Giants will return to league action on 16 September, hosting Royal AM at FNB Stadium.
