Mao on Downs’ radar
Mamelodi Sundowns may just land Tanzanian star Himid Mao after all, according to Phakaathi sources. The Brazilians are said to have been impressed by Mao and he made an even bigger impression during the Tshwane giants’ tour in Tanzania earlier this month. Phakaaathi had earlier reported that Azam FC were set to decline Sundowns’ advances, but it seems the owners have had a change of heart. “Azam’s owners respect Sundowns and they feel if a team as big as them want their player, it means they are doing something right. They have said they would consider the offer if it came because they want to build a relationship with the African champions,” said a source close to the situation. The 24-year-old midfielder is said to be among a few players Pitso Mosimane is eyeing as he wants to build a team that will take over when the senior players in his current squad hang up their boots. Ertugral wants to stay in SA
Former Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates coach Muhsin Ertugral (above) told 702 Radio that he is not entirely lost to the South African football fraternity. The Turk had announced his departure from the country a week ago, but has now revealed that he is still open to coach in the country should he receive a fitting offer. However, at the moment his future is uncertain as he is “enjoying certain projects”. The 57-year-old also revealed that losing out on the Bafana Bafana job influenced him to turn his back on South African football. “I would say yes and no. I think being involved in South African football for so many years, after all those years I thought Bafana needed a coach who knows the culture of the country,” he said. Badenhorst unhappy in the DRC
Phakaaathi sources have revealed that Swazi international and one-time Kaizer Chiefs target Felix Badenhorst (above) is unhappy at AS Vita Club in Democratic Republic of Congo and has told his handlers to find him another team. “He is just not enjoying DRC,” said a source. “He wants to come back and a move to South Africa is what he had preferred from the outset. He only went to DRC because of the good pay. Now he wants to come back. He is even prepared to play for a First Division team and I believe his CV has been sent to a few teams.” Phakaaathi understands that the 27-year-old Badenhorst has also been offered to Highlands Park and Baroka FC but nothing came of the negotiations since he is contracted to Vita.
Kampala Capital City Authority coach Mike Mutebi (above) says he has belief that his side can eliminate Caf Champions League winners Mamelodi Sundowns from the tournament. The Ugandan side take with them a crucial away goal to the second leg this Saturday after losing 2-1 on Friday. “It’s not rocket science, the players just have to believe and do the right thing. We know African players are tactically not smart, so you don’t need to put pressure on them, all they have to do is believe and play their role. We want to eliminate Sundowns, but it is not going to be easy because they are defending champions. They have proved they can go away and get results, but we have to believe,” he said.