Former striker Bruce Ramokadi believes that becoming overly reliant on certain players could negatively impact both Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns in their quest to win the CAF Champions League.
Ramokadi, who won the 1995 CAF Champions League with the Buccaneers, noted that it was clear during both clubs' Nedbank Cup semi-finals that some players appeared to be lacking in energy and performance.
In the semi-final match, Pirates managed to score only one goal, resulting in a narrow win against Marumo Gallants FC, while Sundowns were eliminated from the cup competition by Kaizer Chiefs.
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Both teams face a tight schedule ahead, as they will be playing the first legs of the Champions League semi-finals against Egyptian clubs on Saturday, April 19, 2025.
Pirates will take on Pyramids FC, while Sundowns will face their long-time rivals, Al Ahly FC, with both matches taking place in South Africa.
"Yes, they are hurting themselves by not resting their key players, especially with the Champions League semi-finals approaching," Ramokadi told KickOff.com.
"In the case of Pirates, I understand the situation - they lack depth. However, as for Sundowns, they have definitely shot themselves in the foot."
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Ramokadi expressed confusion over what is holding Sundowns back, noting, "They could easily change their entire lineup and still perform well. They have an excellent squad that allows for such changes."
"With players like Thapelo Morena, Cupido, Khoza, and Siphelele Mkhulise, there are just too many talented players in that team. I believe that some rest would reignite their hunger for the game.
"In their recent match against Chiefs, they didn't seem to put in much effort, possibly thinking it would be an easy game."
Ramokadi observed that Sundowns dropped their performance level, especially after Teboho Mokoena scored from a free-kick. "Once they took the lead, they relaxed," he said.