Mokwena credits big boy Zungu for good displays

Bongani Zungu is reaching his best form and Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena credits his displays as a big boy.

Zungu was on fire as they beat AmaZulu on Tuesday and Mokwena is happy with the midfielder’s displays and experience.

The lanky Sundowns star’s influence in Mokwena’s Sundowns is unbelievable and he is proud and credits his displays.

Zungu shows he can fill various roles and pulled off a masterclass, from a centre-back role that requires technical abilities.

The 31-year-old was key as a playmaker and his physical attributes to drive Sundowns receive credit from the coach.

WHY MOKWENA IS IMPRESSED WITH BIG BOY ZUNGU’S INFLUENCE

In his displays against Usuthu, Zungu also handed hattrick hero Lucas Ribeiro an assist as Sundowns are unbeaten in 40 games.

“You know sometimes we think things [of a new role] but first you need the capacity from the player,” says Mokwena as he credits big boy Zungu.

“And Bongz has it from a technical, tactical, he’s a big boy, very experienced, tactically very clued up, he knows when to step in or fill in.

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena credits Bongani Zungu as a big boy. Image: (@MmasekepeMatsebane/X)

“Then also he believes in the coach, it’s important, sometimes you can come up with the best ideas.

“And maybe the worst ideas, but players can make them the best idea.

“And they could be absolute hogwash but the player believes in you so much that they follow blindly and with their technique.”

SUNDOWNS BOSS DEMANDS MORE FROM BIG BOY ZUNGU

According to Mokwena’s sentiments, it seems Zungu will have to adapt to a new role at Sundowns.

Mokwena suggests that big boy, Zungu can be able to play as a centre-back in the absence of Rivaldo Coetzee at Sundowns.

“So a lot of credit goes to him, he makes us forget a little bit about Riva,” adds Mokwena as he credits Zungu.

“Who we have tried a little bit in that position where he’s done exceptionally well.

“The players do make the tactics – you look at the player.

“Does he have the profile to be able to do certain things, can he come into the next line.

“Can he defend by looking at his own goal?

“Does he have the poise and comfort? Some players don’t like turning to face their own goal, Bongz has that.

“For a defender, it’s important, especially if you defend with 40, 50 meters behind you.

“And he believes in it, brings out the best in him, incredible assist for the third goal.

“In Mauritania, he was in the box twice, he was in the box once [against AmaZulu].

“He went in from centre-back all the way in, I’m very proud of him.”

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