"Tactical Treason": Mamelodi Sundowns Suspend Performance Analyst Over Alleged Leak to Former Coach Mokwena

Mamelodi Sundowns has plunged into crisis ahead of their crucial CAF Champions League clash against MC Alger, suspending long-serving performance analyst Mario Masha. The suspension follows allegations that Masha leaked sensitive tactical data to Rhulani Mokwena, Sundowns' former manager and current head of MC Alger. The timing is critical, as Sundowns must win their final group match to leapfrog the Algerian side (7 points) and secure a spot in the knockout stages.

The scandal broke following cryptic comments by Sundowns’ head coach, Miguel Cardoso, who expressed concerns about the "integrity of the match" and the opponent's potential knowledge of his tactics. While Masha—a staff member since the Pitso Mosimane era—vehemently denies the claims, the club has initiated a formal disciplinary hearing. Mokwena has sought to distance himself from the drama, insisting his return to Pretoria is strictly business, aimed at securing MC Alger's qualification at "Loftus Versfeld."