The experienced tactician has revived Stellenbosch’s season after taking over with the club in the relegation zone in January.

He once again showed his tactical flexibility against the Betway Premiership defending champions.

Gavin Hunt opted to start without a natural striker — a move that raised eyebrows before kick-off.

However, it proved effective, as Mabasa came off the bench to net a crucial late equaliser.

Speaking after the match, Hunt made it clear the decision was tactical rather than experimental.

“I don’t want to sound clever… Other coaches will sit here and try to sound clever by giving a whole football explanation.

“On my side, I just felt it was the best way to go,” said Hunt.

The four-time league-winning coach explained that his approach was designed to counter Sundowns’ dominance, focusing on defensive shape and quick transitions.

“We want our players on the right side of the ball, not the wrong side. A striker is often on the wrong side, and when we break, we need space,” he said.

Gavin Hunt added that he deliberately allowed Sundowns’ defenders to have possession, trusting his system to force turnovers and create opportunities.

“I’ve beaten Sundowns many times playing without a striker. It’s not about being clever — it’s about trying something different.”

The result underlined Gavin Hunt’s growing influence at Stellenbosch, with his bold tactical decisions continuing to deliver results against the league’s strongest sides.

Visit MDNtv YouTube Channel for our video content

The post Hunt explains bold no-striker gamble against Sundowns appeared first on MDNtv.

While speaking on a sports broadcast over the weekend, Hunt questioned whether Lucas Ribeiro truly deserves the Player of the Season title, expressing doubts about the Brazilian’s work ethic and how he might struggle in a less dominant team.

Read:

Launch of Easter Road Safety campaign stamps authority of the State in Sekhukhune District

“Ribeiro scores goals, but if you put him in a smaller team like Magesi, he’ll struggle. He would have to work harder there,” Gavin Hunt commented.

Hunt went on to say that Teboho Mokoena is currently the best footballer in South Africa.

When it comes to Orlando Pirates, Hunt named a midfielder he referred to as “the boy in the middle” as the standout talent, identifying him as Makhehleni Makhaula. “He’s the best at Pirates. He’s the glue that holds the team together,” he said.

Meanwhile, with Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro set to leave at the end of the season, talks are heating up about who might take over. Former club legends have thrown their support behind Pitso Mosimane, citing his experience and track record of success. Mosimane, who is currently a free agent, is considered one of the most successful coaches in African football history with multiple league and continental titles.

Another name linked to the job is Rulani Mokwena, the current coach of Wydad Casablanca, who is expected to part ways with the Moroccan side soon. His potential return to the Premier Soccer League could stir things up as Orlando Pirates seek a new direction.

The post Gavin Hunt Picks His Top Players at Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates – And It’s Not Mofokeng appeared first on MDNtv.