The post Mngqithi on how Arrows captain Jiyane reminds him of the great Siyabonga Sangweni appeared first on MDNtv.
]]>Jiyane, 23, joined Abafana Bes’thende towards the end of last season after leaving Royal AM.
And he has quickly established himself as a key figure at the back. His consistent performances earned him the captain’s armband under Mngqithi.
The Arrows coach believes the young centre-back has been instrumental to the team’s progress, highlighting his reliability and strong character.
“I think he’s been very instrumental in our team. He’s worked his way into the starting eleven and even into the captaincy because he’s one of our most consistent players,” said Mngqithi.
Despite concerns from some quarters about his height, Mngqithi insists Jiyane’s defensive qualities more than compensate, especially in one-on-one situations.
“He reminds me of Sangweni in one-against-one situations. He’s very good, very quick, and energetic. For the way we want to play, we need defenders with speed and aggression,” he added.
Mngqithi also praised Jiyane’s partnership with Ntandoyenkosi Mabaso, noting that their pace and ability to win duels have strengthened the team defensively.
Drawing global comparisons, the coach referenced Italian greats Fabio Cannavaro and Alessandro Nesta as examples of defenders who excelled despite not being the tallest.
He believes Jiyane has similar potential, provided he continues developing at the same rate.
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]]>The post Mngqithi urges players to emulate Pirates star Hotto appeared first on MDNtv.
]]>The experienced coach did not hold back in his praise, revealing that Hotto is often used as a benchmark during his team talks.
Speaking after his Golden Arrows were humbled by Pirates in a league game on Tuesday Mngqithi reflected on how the work ethic is important.
“I always make an example with Hotto when I talk to my players,” said Mngqithi.
“I think he’s a good football player, but his biggest strength is his intensity — the way he works and runs.”
Mngqithi stressed that the 35-year-old Hotto’s effort levels, especially at his age, should inspire younger players still trying to make their mark.
“When you look at his age and compare it to the intensity he plays with,” added Mngqithi. “It should be an example to younger players who still want to achieve things in football.”
The former Mamelodi Sundowns mentor also pointed out a growing culture within the Pirates squad — one built on relentless work rate.
“You can see it across the team — they run. There’s no laziness. That’s something my players can learn from.”
He even issued a blunt challenge to his own squad.
“If a team as big as Pirates can run like this, and we can’t match that, then it means we don’t have ambition.”
Mngqithi made it clear that while mistakes can happen, effort should never be questioned.
“My players must never be outrun by any team. That’s the standard.”
And in his final message, he underlined the lesson of the day: “The biggest takeaway is the work rate — and even the dribbles that Hotto produced. There’s a lot to learn from him.”
A strong message — and one that puts intensity and effort at the heart of success.
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