Barker: Mngqithi Was Dismissed Too Early

Stellenbosch FC’s coach, Steve Barker, believes that Mamelodi Sundowns acted promptly in parting ways with Manqoba Mngqithi ahead of their Betway Premiership clash at DHL Stadium on Wednesday (19:30).

Barker played a crucial role in Sundowns’ exit from the MTN8, overcoming Mngqithi’s team, who had previously outperformed the Tshwane giants both home and away in the semifinals, ultimately succumbing to Orlando Pirates in the final.

Despite triumphing over the Brazilians in a domestic cup this season and observing shifts within Sundowns’ technical team, the Stellies coach remains vigilant, expecting a tough encounter.

“Every match in the Premiership is important, but going up against a team like Sundowns, currently leading the league, presents a significant challenge for us as a club. We aspire to compete for the league as well, making games like these vital for our progress,” Barker stated.

“It’s important for us to keep gathering points in the league to stay close to the title contenders. We are looking forward to the match; our preparations have gone well, and the players are in a great mindset following a strong away victory in the Confed Cup.”

The 56-year-old coach, who recently marked his 100th win with the club after a victory over Pirates in their latest league fixture, hopes his players can draw inspiration from their initial continental success and direct that energy against Miguel Cardoso’s team.

“Winning is always advantageous; it fosters belief and confidence. We created plenty of opportunities in that match, and we aim to maintain that confidence into Wednesday night,” remarked the Maroons’ coach.

Barker also reflected on the recent coaching changes at Chloorkop, suggesting that the club acted prematurely in modifying their coaching staff so early in the 2024/25 season, indicating a need to manage concerns without rushing into decisions.

“I feel it was too early in the season for them to make coaching staff changes, and now we’re facing them amid a coaching transition. This will certainly bring a different dynamic to the game,” Barker expressed.

“Even a player like [Iqraam] Rayners was absent during the MTN8; he’s currently in outstanding goal-scoring form, which makes them a more challenging opponent. Nevertheless, I believe we have also improved since the MTN8, and those previous results are irrelevant now.”

The Cape Winelands team is eager to achieve an upset as they seek to secure their second league win over Sundowns, their last victory occurring in May 2022, when they celebrated a 3-0 triumph, highlighted by an Ashley Du Preez brace and a goal from Jayden Adams.