Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies team coach Jerry Chabalala was not happy with how his troops performed during their weekend fixture.
Defending champion suffered a shock defeat at the hands of EDO Queens on Saturday night for CAF Women’s Champions League.
It seems like it is a trend for Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies team, as they went the same route as they did in 2022 when they finished as a runner-up.
On their records for CAF Champions League Sundowns managed to won the tournament twice in 2021 and 2023 while knocked out twice in 2022 and 2024.
After their defeat at the hands of Edo Queens by 2-1 at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, Chabalala expressed his dissatisfaction about teams effort to defend their throne.
He said “We are disappointed with our performance, especially given the effort we put into preparation.
“We executed the plan very well in the first half, creating opportunities and maintaining good defensive shape.
“However, we lost focus in critical moments during the second half, which ultimately cost us the game.”
Chabalala went to acknowledge that his side lacked consistency in terms of performance and that they must improve in certain areas.
He said “Our level of hunger was not where it needed to be at the start of the competition. We did not approach the opening game with the intensity and focus required at this level.
“However, we came out blazing in the second game, showing much more determination and urgency.
“Unfortunately, defensively, we lacked the solidity and discipline needed to sustain our momentum and secure the desired results.
“Nevertheless, we gave our all and left everything on the pitch, and for that, I am proud of the team’s effort and commitment.”
Even though they are wounded side, Chabalala mentioned that his side have learned a valuable lesson and they will improve their game overall.
He said “The key lesson here is that we need to be more aggressive and assertive, especially in critical moments.
“We must capitalise on our opportunities and remain focused throughout the game. As a team, we need to improve our adaptability and game management under pressure.
“Tournament games are different from Hollywoodbets Super League games as they demand a higher level of intensity, quicker decision-making and the ability to handle diverse styles of play from strong opponents.”
BY LUCKY SEANEGO
