Mamelodi Sundowns joint head coach Manqoba Mngqithi has explained the team selection that was preferred for their CAF Champions League opener on Tuesday.
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The Brazilians were 2-0 winners over Jwaneng Galaxy of Botswana in the first leg of their group stages play-offs encounter away from home.
Mothobi Mvala and Peter Shalulile got the goals.
"We brought a team that is stronger aerially because we knew the pitch conditions would not allow us to play our normal football. So we had to make sure that we try to strengthen that department because even in the last match we conceded from a set piece. For us that is one area that we always work hard to make sure that we consolidate," Mngqithi told the media.
He did however bemoan having to play on a below average field.
"Overall it was a good game, though the pitch conditions could be better. I believe Botswana is capable of a far better pitch than this – we played a good team, that can play football on the ground," the coach explained.
"Maybe it made it difficult for them as well when their pitch is not good enough. They are quick and explosive. If structurally you are good, but have to depend on aerial balls because the pitch is not good, it also plays against you as a home team, who should dominate and not rely on breaks and counter attacks. Maybe that is a lesson that the team can take."
Sundowns will host the second leg on January 5.
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