Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Manqoba Mngqithi has provided his verdict on the return of defender Khuliso Mudau, who was in action during the side's victory over Kaizer Chiefs having missed the four games prior.
The defending champions had to come from behind to triumph by a 2-1 in a pulsating encounter at a sold-out FNB Stadium on Saturday, courtesy of first-half goals from Lucas Ribeiro and Iqraam Rayners.
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The match also marked a first appearance of the season for Bafana Bafana defender and 2023/24 PSL Defender of the Season Mudau, who was brought on with just just over 15 minutes left to play.
The 29-year-old's absence has been a subject of great controversy in recent weeks, having played a key figure in the league title-winning Sundowns side of last season.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Mngqithi said he was pleased to have the right-back in his team once more.
"It was nice to have Mudau back," the 53-year-old quipped.
"Like I said, even before, that they are still going to come back and help us a lot, and I think today was the right time to bring him, and he did very well.
"He proved the quality he has. No doubt, defensively he is one of the best players you can ever have.
"In one-against-one [duels], I think he's in a class of his own, and it was pleasing to see him perform the way he has performed today, and I was very happy," he added.
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The victory keeps The Brazilians at the top of the standings, while Chiefs slip down to sixth.
Sundowns will return to action against Polokwane City on 27 October.