Pitso to use his tried and tested against Otoho

Pitso Mosimane has given a hint on how he is likely to line up his team tonight when Mamelodi Sundowns take on Congo Brazzaville side Otoho d’Oyo in the second leg of the Caf Champions League preliminary match at Lucas Moripe Stadium.

When the former African champions lost 2-1 in the first leg, Mosimane said they somehow played a lot better in the second half and “dominated” the match even though they were a man down.

He said that was because he had brought on his tried-and-tested ball-players in Themba Zwane and Sibusiso Vilakazi – who both started the match on the bench.

Those two, alongside Lebogang Maboe, Gaston Sirino and the versatile Thapelo Morena, have been propelling Masandawana’s engine so far this season as generally the Brazilians haven’t looked as sharp as they usually do.

“The team were unbelievable with 10 men in the second half, they played and we dominated. We made two changes because we did not start with “Vila” and Zwane. When we had “Vila”, Tiyani Mabunda, Thapelo Morena and Lebogang Maboe the team looked better and we started to come back properly,” said Mosimane.

However, he admits he may be forced to make a few alterations to his team here and there: “Because of the heavy programme we are forced to give other players a chance because we need to change the team. We are forced to make the changes because we are in that space. Orlando Pirates also do the same because they are in the same programme as us,” said the coach.

He continued: “At Sundowns it is more than what we are playing for or how important a cup is. It is about them as players to put themselves in positions to play. Positions are up for grabs and there is enough talent. It is about the players cementing their positions and saying to the team ‘whenever you need me I am available’. It is also about their pride and integrity. It is up to you as a player to put yourself in the team.”

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