Manqoba Mngqithi Reflects Ahead of Carling Knockout Final

As Mamelodi Sundowns prepare for the Carling Knockout final against Magesi FC at the Free State Stadium on Saturday at 6pm, coach Manqoba Mngqithi has issued a warning to his team: don’t underestimate the opponent or their coach, Clinton Larsen.

Mngqithi, a seasoned tactician himself, spoke with admiration about Larsen’s career and the challenges he has overcome to deliver results, often against the odds. Reflecting on their history, Mngqithi revealed how Larsen has been a thorn in Sundowns’ side in the past.

In 2012, Larsen famously led Bloemfontein Celtic to a shock 1-0 victory over Sundowns in the Telkom Knockout final. Three years later, his Celtic side stunned the Brazilians again, handing them a humiliating 5-0 league defeat while Mngqithi was assistant to Pitso Mosimane.

“I have a lot of respect for coaches like Clinton,” Mngqithi said. “He’s coached at almost every level of football, and that gives him a depth of understanding that many don’t have. Clinton has proven that even with limited resources, he knows how to deliver. His journey mirrors mine in many ways, and that’s why I hold him in such high regard.”

Mngqithi shared these anecdotes with his players to ensure they approach the final with humility and caution. “I want my team to know they’re not up against just any coach,” he said. “Clinton has shown time and again that he can upset the favorites. When he was at Celtic, he beat us with five goals because we underestimated him. And let’s not forget, he’s already lifted this trophy by defeating Sundowns before.”

As Sundowns aim to avoid another upset, Mngqithi remains clear-eyed about the challenge. “We’re not taking Magesi lightly. This is a coach who knows how to inspire his team to rise above their circumstances. I respect him immensely for that.”

The stage is set for an intriguing battle, with Larsen’s Magesi hoping to script another underdog story and Sundowns determined to maintain their dominance.