Sundowns suspend technical official over claims of leaking team secrets

Mamelodi Sundowns are facing a major internal crisis after a long-serving technical team member was suspended over allegations of leaking sensitive information.

The controversy erupts just days before their decisive CAF Champions League group stage match against MC Alger.

The club, which returned to South Africa on Monday, is preparing for a high-stakes finale in Group C, often dubbed the ‘Group of Death’. Sundowns secured a 1-1 draw against St Eloi Lupopo on Sunday, while MC Alger defeated Al Hilal 2-1, setting up a dramatic final round where all four teams still have a chance to qualify.

Who has been suspended and why?

According to SABC, Sundowns performance analyst Mario Masha has been suspended with immediate effect over claims of leaking crucial information.

An investigation is underway into accusations that Masha leaked tactical plans, training details, and even access codes for the data platforms used by the coaching staff.

Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso spoke about the matter on Sunday after his team’s match with Lupopo and it appears a decision had already been made to boot out Masha.

Cardoso concerned by team leaks

“I hope that in the next match we have a full stadium with only one foot to support the team nothing more,” Cardoso said. “I hope that the opponent does not know or guess how we are going to play. I hope it [leaks] is controlled also so that we cam make a fair game from our side.”

The situation adds another layer of drama to the upcoming fixture, which will see former Sundowns head coach Rulani Mokwena return to Loftus Versfeld for the first time since his departure, now at the helm of Algerian champions MC Alger.

Masha has been at Sundowns since August 2015 when he joined from August 2015 from Maritzburg United, now Durban City, while his suspension comes days after he completed a UEFA A Diploma course at the Scottish Football Association last week.