Mamelodi Sundowns defender Aubrey Modiba is determined to help his side replicate the success of the club’s historic 2016 CAF Champions League triumph.
Masandawana prepare to face Egypt’s Pyramids FC in a two-legged final.
Modiba, 29, has been a key figure for the Tshwane giants since joining from SuperSport United four years ago. With experience playing in a CAF Confederation Cup final during his time at his previous club, the seasoned defender understands the demands of continental competition.
“Having played so many Champions League games at Sundowns, I think we understand what it takes to be able to reach the final and try to win it because it has been eluding us for many years,” said Modiba.
“It will be great for us because we want to make history in this club, and as players, we always want to win big trophies. The last cup final (Confed)… I was playing for SuperSport, we didn’t have much experience, and we saw how we fell short in that game.
“We are on the right track, we just need to make sure that we do well in both legs, especially the first leg at home.”
Sundowns host the first leg this Saturday at 3pm at Loftus Versfeld Stadium. It’s a familiar opponent for the South African champions – the two sides met in the group stages two years ago, with Sundowns earning a win and a draw. However, Modiba is not underestimating the threat posed by Pyramids.
Modiba’s motivation is clear: to follow in the footsteps of the 2016 Sundowns side, guided by coach Pitso Mosimane, that lifted the coveted trophy.
He added: “We want the joy they had in 2016 and we saw the celebrations all over the country. The fans were happy and we want to bring back that happiness and positivity.”