Mamelodi Sundowns defender Mothobi Mvala has issued a rallying cry to the club’s experienced players, urging them to take charge in the decisive second leg of the CAF Champions League final against Pyramids FC.
With the tie delicately poised following a hard-fought 1-1 draw in the first leg at Loftus Versfeld last Saturday, Sundowns know they must deliver a composed and commanding performance on Sunday to secure continental glory.
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Due to the fixture played away from home, the reigning Betway Premiership champions have multiple paths to victory. A win will see them lift the prestigious trophy outright, while a high-scoring draw of 2-2 or more will also secure their triumph.
That being said, another 1-1 result would push the contest into a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. A goalless draw, on the other hand, would favor Pyramids due to the away goals rule, making the task even more challenging for Masandawana.
With so much at stake, Mvala believes the team’s seasoned campaigners must lead by example, ensuring composure, tactical discipline, and leadership on the grand stage as Sundowns chase their second CAF Champions League crown.
The club boasts a wealth of experience in both domestic and continental competitions, with several players recently having shone on the international stage.
Key squad members including Ronwen Williams, Khuliso Mudau, Grant Kekana, Mvala himself, Aubrey Modiba, Themba Zwane, Teboho Mokoena, Thapelo Morena, and Jayden Adams were part of Bafana Bafana’s squad that secured third place at the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast last year.
Their presence provides Sundowns with a core of seasoned campaigners who understand high-pressure scenarios.
“We need experienced players to come to the party, specially in the change room, to push the guys so we can win this game,” said Mvala.
“We played Pyramids FC before and it’s not going to be an easy game because we have to get a result that side.”
Additionally, the club can count on foreign stars like Marcelo Allende (Chile), Lucas Ribeiro (Brazil), and Namibia’s Peter Shalulile – all of whom bring valuable Champions League experience to the squad.
Kick off at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo is set for 19h00 (SAST) on Sunday, 01 June 2025.