Pitso Dladla confident MTN8 exit won’t derail Golden Arrows

Abafana Bes’thende were knocked out after a 3-3 aggregate draw with Mamelodi Sundowns, with The Brazilians advancing on the away-goal rule at King Zwelithini Stadium.

The result ended Arrows’ unbeaten defensive record after they had not conceded in any competition this season, however, Dladla insists the semifinal setback should not overshadow the progress his team have made. 

"We are proud of these boys, and the good thing is that what we see in the matches is what we see in training, because how you train is how you play. There are a lot of individuals who are developing nicely in this team so we are very happy."

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The former Durban City coach praised the side for picking up from where they left off last season after finishing in sixth place under Manqoba Mngqithi. 

He says there were adjustments here and there, but it was never too drastic. 

Dladla added that he is hoping their journey so far will serve as enough motivation for the players to gear up for the rest of the season after the cup heartache. 

Dladla will likely look to the same team again when they host Sundowns at the same venue on Sunday with goalkeeper Edward Maova and captain Ayanda Jiyane are still ruled out with injury. 

"On Sunday we will be back here at King Zwelethini and I believe we are ready for the game against Sundowns."