Marumo Gallants Coach Eyes Repeat Upset Against Mamelodi Sundowns Johannesburg, October 22, 2026 – Marumo Gallants coach Ronnie Kanalelo is expressing confidence that his team can once again pull off a stunning victory over Mamelodi Sundowns in the upcoming Carling Knockout first-round match.

This sentiment follows Gallants’ historic elimination of Sundowns at this stage of the competition last season, a result that propelled them to the final where they ultimately lost to Orlando Pirates.

Despite a difficult campaign for Gallants, characterized by a winless streak across eight league matches and a position at the bottom of the standings, Kanalelo remains steadfast in his belief.

He argues that Sundowns’ recent defeats demonstrate that they are not immune to setbacks, a point he intends to leverage.

According to Kanalelo, “what we are saying is that Sundowns are beatable,” and that history has shown this to be true within the Carling Knockout tournament.

The Brazilians, buoyed by their recent MTN8 title win, are expected to enter the match with considerable confidence.

However, Kanalelo has issued a clear warning, stating that any arrogance displayed by Sundowns would be detrimental to their chances.

Kanalelo’s past association with Sundowns, where he played and won titles in the late 1990s, is also a key factor in his approach.

He emphasized that his current loyalty lies with Marumo Gallants, acknowledging his previous role and salary while clarifying his present commitment.

Gallants’ near-miss in the 2025 Carling Knockout final – a 1-0 defeat to Orlando Pirates at Peter Mokaba Stadium – fuels Kanalelo’s determination to achieve a better outcome this year.

He believes there is no reason why his team cannot improve upon their performance and secure a significant victory.

Analysts suggest that Kanalelo’s strategy hinges on disrupting Sundowns’ rhythm and capitalizing on any potential lapses in concentration.

The coach’s bold declaration that Gallants will “work for it” indicates a prepared and determined approach, suggesting a significant challenge for the reigning MTN8 champions.

The upcoming match is therefore being viewed as a pivotal moment for Marumo Gallants, a chance to prove their resilience and potentially rewrite the narrative of their season.

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