Sebona Warns: AFCON Fatigue May Hurt Sundowns More Than Pirates
Former Mamelodi Sundowns FC winger Lucas Sebona, popularly known as “Makhokhoba”, believes the Africa Cup of Nations break could subtly tilt the PSL title race in favour of Orlando Pirates.
Pirates entered the AFCON pause sitting top of the table, three points clear of Sundowns, who have endured a rare slow start by their own lofty standards. According to Sebona, both clubs will remain central to the title picture once league action resumes, but the break may affect them differently.
“Changes will definitely happen when the PSL restarts, but Pirates and Sundowns will still be the dominant teams because many of their players are active in Morocco,” Sebona explained. “Fatigue will catch up, but squad depth matters. Between the two, Sundowns might feel it more.”
Sebona argues that Pirates’ increasing reliance on young players could work in their favour during a congested schedule. “Youngsters recover much quicker,” he said. “Sundowns depend more on experienced stars, and at that level it takes longer to bounce back physically.”
He also warned that the break could be especially disruptive for smaller clubs. “Some teams will almost have to start from scratch in terms of match fitness. Christmas celebrations can be excessive if there’s no discipline,” he added. “Clubs without strong sponsorships will suffer most. The ones that will cope are Chiefs, Sundowns and Pirates because of their facilities and access to quality friendlies.”
Beyond the title race, Pirates’ youth model continues to draw attention across the continent. Ugandan-based agent and scout Paul Mujuni praised the Soweto giants for consistently producing talent attractive to the global market, but questioned some recent career decisions.
Mujuni believes Pirates captain Mbekezeli Mbokazi moved abroad too soon after completing a long-term switch to Chicago Fire FC.
“In my view, that move was rushed for a player of his quality,” Mujuni said. “He should have played AFCON and even a World Cup cycle first. Europe would have been a better platform.”
Echoing comments previously made by Hugo Broos, Mujuni argued that Europe remains the ideal destination for emerging South African stars. “North America, Saudi Arabia and the Middle East are better suited to experienced players. These youngsters need Europe.”
He pointed to Lyle Foster as the blueprint, highlighting how the former Pirates forward used France as a stepping stone before reaching the Premier League. “That pathway should be the aim for players like Mbokazi, Nkota and even Mofokeng. The more South Africans playing in Europe, the stronger the national team becomes.”