Mamelodi Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane believes his side must win against ASEC Mimosas on Tuesday in order to ensure they advance out of Group A.
Sundowns had their first training session in Ivory Coast last Friday as they prepare for the vital encounter against ASEC.
It will be match day four in Africa’s most prestigious club competition and the Brazilians are being meticulous in their preparations.
Last Friday, aside from practice, the 2016 African champions also underwent a video session.
Mosimane is clearly preparing the outfit for the daunting tie at Stade Felix Houphouet Boigny, the national stadium of the West African nation, on Tuesday. Kickoff is 18:00.
Downs have been training every day during their stay in that country. On Monday the club will practice at the match-day venue before undergoing a video session in the evening.
It appears the clash against the West Africans could be a tough one as the home side has not yet conceded at home in the CCL.
As it stands, Sundowns and Wydad Casablanca lead on six points with ASEC and Lobi Stars on three points-a-piece in third and fourth respectively.
After the game, the Brazilians will leave immediately for the airport so as to return to South Africa. Downs have a top of the table encounter against Bidvest Wits on Saturday in the Premiership.
Mosimane said: “A win in Abidjan is very important for us, and we must win here (in SA) against Lobi Stars so that when we go to Casablanca we don’t go there desperately needing a result.”
In team news, Bagate Sadi is out with suspension while Tam Abdoul is on international duty with the Burkina Faso U20s. Patrick Malo returns after a ban. Downs report no new notable injury concerns.
