We can’t afford it! Doc Khumalo explains why Chiefs, Pirates fans & Co. shouldn’t pray for Sundowns’ downfall

Mamelodi Sundowns have been struggling for consistency both domestically and in CAF inter-club competitions.

Their inconsistencies have seen them risk ending the season without silverware. Domestically, they are trailing Orlando Pirates in the race for the Premier Soccer League title.

This weekend, Masandawana will be eliminated from the CAF Champions League if they fail to beat Rulani Mokwena’s MC Alger in Group C at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

However, the Kaizer Chiefs legend has warned against celebrating Sundowns’ struggles since they will negatively impact Bafana Bafana, who are preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Sundowns produce players for South Africa

“It’s okay to pose it that fashion [teams must take advantage of Sundowns situation] but I would want to see any team in the PSL to challenge Sundowns without problems, why do you have to wait for them to be crippled and then you take advantage of that, when they are not at their best and you want to say you are the best,” he opened up to the media.

“They have their internal problems, you, yourself, fix yourself and face them when they don’t have problems, then I will take my hat off, and salute – but at the moment, I can’t say that. You waiting for them [Sundowns] for a situation when there’s a crisis in the club.

“Then you want to come and celebrate saying I’ve beaten Sundowns… no, they are going through a phase, it’s football problems, so I just hope and wish they overcome that and become the Sundowns we know. They make the PSL exciting and produce players for South Africa – we can’t celebrate when Sundowns have problems,” Doc Khumalo added.

Downs have taken nation’s pride to another level

“I’m praying and hoping they resolve their problems, we can’t afford to lose Sundowns, especially on the continent. Remember, Sundowns are so important to us. When the draw was made for the World Cup, they asked the Mexican coach; what do you think of South Africa?” the Amakhosi legend asked.

“He was talking about South Africa and answered by saying, ‘I saw Sundowns in the FIFA Club World Cup’ with this and that, you understand what I mean?

“These guys have taken the pride of the nation to another level – countries, teams, respect South African football because of Sundowns, Pirates and all the teams that have played outside South Africa,” he concluded.