Mlambo: Sundowns Struggle With Matches Of Consequence

Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Xola Mlambo has questioned Mamelodi Sundowns' mentality in matches of consequence ahead of the CAF Champions League final.

Sundowns had an anti-climax in the final few matches of their league title race against Orlando Pirates, dropping points in four of their last seven matches.

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The Brazilians have been cruising, without any challenge in the closing stages of the campaign in previous seasons, but their mental fortitude was tested, with Pirates applying the pressure by keeping close contact at the top of the standings.

Miguel Cardoso's charges could not navigate a congested fixture schedule, due to them reaching the CAF Champions League final, after a 3-2 defeat to TS Galaxy in their last league match, which increased The Buccaneers' chances of clinching the title, even with a match to spare.

Mlambo questioned Sundowns' inability to hold their own when they are facing the difficulty of fixture pile-up and suggested that they crack under pressure.

"It has been proven over and over again that Sundowns has been somehow struggling when it comes to consequences games. You look at the cup finals (they lost), Champions League, (Carling) Knockout, they can bring up all the excuses but I think they need to revisit their plan and structure, how they do things," Mlambo said on NXL360 YouTube Channel.

"Magesi took the trophy away from them, we can name a lot. They can come back and say they did not have enough rest but if you're playing for so many competitions, you have to be prepared and ready.

"It's unfortunate that they are breaking at the (final hurdle when there's pressure). They go all the way, but when they have to reach the finish line, there's a lapse of concentration, disjointment, a lot of questionable things that are happening," Mlambo added.

There are already doubts ahead of the CAF Champions League final against FAR Rabat over Sundowns' ability to seize the moment, after they were pipped to the title by Pyramids last season.

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