Kennedy Mweene relishing Club World Cup experience as coach

The ex-Zambian international was elevated to the position following changes to the technical team in December last year, with Wendell Robinson leaving the club along with Manqoba Mngqithi. 

Mweene jetted out to the USA for the World Cup, having been part of a team that clinched yet another league title, this time under coach Miguel Cardoso. 

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Sundowns took part in the old format nine years ago while Mweene was still playing, and he is hoping for an improvement in America.   

"There are a lot of memories attached to this competition for me. The last time I played in this competition was in 2016. At that time, it was our first experience of the old Club World Cup, but now I'm here in a different capacity.

"The team has been growing in leaps and bounds. We have a few youngsters in our group, but it's important that we go out there and compete," said the former goalkeeper. 

Mweene welcomed the expanded version of the Club World Cup, arguing it gives Africa a fighting chance of winning on this global stage. 

"I think it's really good news for Africa, because last time, only one or two African clubs took part. This time around, it's about four.

"We just have to show what we're made of when we're that side. It won't be easy, but we must showcase the very best of South African and African football."

Asked whether he would shake things up at the World Cup in the goalkeeping department, Mweene made it clear Ronwen Williams remains the first choice. 

Mweene concluded by speaking about his admiration for Denis Onyango, the 40-year-old who continues to play at the highest level. 

"As a goalkeeper coach, the important thing for me is to know how to train a 40-year-old goalkeeper, and it's not entirely easy.

"He always pushes himself, and I always encourage him to play until his 45."