From control to concern: Why Mamelodi Sundowns’ backline is costing them in Africa

Mamelodi Sundowns’ CAF Champions League campaign has suddenly taken on an uneasy edge after a damaging run against Al Hilal exposed cracks that can no longer be ignored.

One point from a possible six against the Sudanese giants is a return that falls well short of expectations for a club of Sundowns’ continental pedigree. More troubling, however, is how those results came about. A 2-2 draw in Pretoria followed by a 2-1 defeat in Kigali highlighted defensive frailties that have crept into a side usually defined by control and composure.

The Brazilians conceded four goals across those two matches, and each one felt avoidable. Poor defensive spacing, uncertainty in key moments and a lack of cohesion across the back line have undermined Sundowns’ authority in matches they largely dominated territorially. At this level, those lapses are punished without mercy.

Selection and rotation have also played a significant role. Denis Onyango, now having featured in three successive matches, appears to have temporarily displaced Ronwen Williams.

While Onyango’s experience is unquestionable, the sudden change in goal has disrupted continuity, especially in a competition where defensive chemistry is paramount.

Further complicating matters has been Sundowns’ revolving door in central defence. Four centre-backs have been used in three different partnerships over this period, making it difficult to establish rhythm or understanding. The knock-on effect has been evident, with miscommunication and hesitation creeping into moments that demand decisiveness.

The induction of teenage left-back Thato Sibiya is another subplot that speaks to both Sundowns’ long-term vision and their immediate risk.

The 19-year-old has shown promise, but against Al Hilal’s towering, physical frontline, his inexperience was exposed. African competition is unforgiving, and on Friday night, physical mismatches opened doors that Sundowns could not close.

Now sitting second in the group behind Al Hilal, Sundowns face a defining trip to Congo to face Saint-Éloi Lupopo before rounding off their group against Rulani Mokwena’s MC Alger.

It is no longer about managing scenarios or calculating outcomes. This is a moment that requires bravery, clarity and defensive resolve.

For a club that measures itself by continental success, the margin for error has narrowed dramatically. Sundowns still control their destiny, but only if they rediscover the defensive certainty that once made them feared across Africa.