Saturday Star

Are Downs up for Mazembe?

Rivalry between African powerhouse­s continues in Loftus showdown

- MAZOLA MOLEFE

OFTEN the comparison between Mamelodi Sundowns and TP Mazembe appears to only involve their two rich owners – billionair­e Patrice Motsepe and Moise Katumbi, a Congolese politician and businessma­n who has turned Mazembe into an African football powerhouse.

But the two clubs are much more aligned than that.

Here’s how. counterpar­ts. the years but has remained a key member of the club because of it’s stature and staying power.

Katumbi has undoubtedl­y made it worth his while financiall­y to stay committed.

With the trio of Jonathan Bolingi, Merveille Bope and Christian Luyindama moving to Belgian side Standard Liege recently, Mazembe have not need needed to plead poverty as far as playing personnel goes, being able to welcome back Tresor Mputu and Deo Kanda to make sure they are still quite potent in attack.

 ??  ?? Thapelo Morena’s presence at Mamelodi Sundowns helps soften the blow of the club losing Keagan Dolly.
Thapelo Morena’s presence at Mamelodi Sundowns helps soften the blow of the club losing Keagan Dolly.
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