‘I told him!’ Manqoba reveals discussion with match-winner Letlhaku

Mamelodi Sundowns teenager Kutlwano Letlhaku stole the show on Wednesday night in the Premier Soccer League game against Polokwane City.

Downs made wholesale changes to their squad, from the 4-0 win over Kaizer Chiefs last weekend, retaining goalkeeper Ronwen Williams and Peter Shalulile. The 18-year-old grabbed a brace after two assists from Brazilian Arthur Sales to help the defending champions get their sixth league win in seven outings this season.

The Masandawana graduate won the Man of the Match Award for his display, his first ever in South African top-flight football.

Coach Manqoba Mngqithi has now revealed the discussion he had with the attacker before giving him a chance against Rise and Shine in a crucial outing.

I told Letlhaku he will score two goals – Manqoba

“It’s strange in football because sometimes we look like soothsayers,” the former Golden Arrows coach said after the game.

“I told him he’s going to score two goals today, because I had that feeling that in that side of [Tlou] Nkwe, [Lebohang Nkaki], there’s gonna be something that is going to open for us. If we’ve got somebody who is dynamic. I could have gone for a more established player but I thought I needed somebody who is willing to take risks.

“First-half he could have taken three shots but because he’s a young boy, he’s got respect, he only opened up after he scored,” Manqoba concluded.

Mamelodi Sundowns now turn their attention to the Carling Knockout semi-final game against Marumo Gallants this weekend.