Rising teenage star Kutlwano Letlhaku bagged a brace as Mamelodi Sundowns ran out 2-0 winners over Polokwane City on Wednesday night.
Sundowns boss Manqoba Mngqithi made nine changes from the team that beat Kaizer Chiefs on the weekend with only striker Peter Shalulile and keeper Ronwen Williams keeping their places in the starting lineup.
Speaking to the media after the game Mngqithi explained his decision to start 18-year-old Letlhaku: “It’s strange in football because sometimes we look like soothsayers,” the coach told SuperSport.
“I told him he’s going to score two goals today, because I had that feeling that on that side of Tlou Nkwe, Lebohang Nkaki, there’s going to be something that is going to open for us.
“If we’ve got somebody who is dynamic – I could have gone for a more established player but I thought I needed somebody who is willing to take risks.
“First-half he could have taken three shots but because he’s a young boy, he’s got respect, he only opened up after he scored,” he said.
The win means the Brazilians maintain their place in second on the league table, just three points leaders Orlando Pirates.
Sundowns return to action on the weekend when they face Marumo Gallants in the semifinal of the Carling Knockout Cup.
A star showing from tonight's #BetwayPrem Man of the Match! 🏆
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) November 6, 2024
Well played, Kutlwano! #Sundowns #RabatsenaGape pic.twitter.com/9b1RtRmilQ
