Mamelodi Sundowns are eager to recover from their shock 2-1 loss to Magesi FC in the Carling Knockout Cup final. The Brazilians will face AS Maniema Union in their opening 2024/25 CAF Champions League group stage match at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Tuesday evening.
Sundowns to Bounce Back
After a dominant 8-0 victory over Mbabane Swallows, Mamelodi Sundowns secured their spot in the 2024/25 CAF Champions League group stage. The Brazilians, who were eliminated in the semi-finals last season, are determined to improve their performance this time around.
However, Sundowns have faced a series of disappointments in recent domestic competitions, losing three finals in the past two seasons. To turn their fortunes around, a strong start in the Champions League is crucial.
The upcoming match against AS Maniema Union at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Tuesday is a pivotal encounter. With a tough group consisting of AS FAR Rabat and Raja Casablanca, Sundowns will need to secure maximum points to stay competitive.
Player Spotlight
Iqraam Rayners is eager to make his mark on the continental stage. The speedy forward made a strong debut for Mamelodi Sundowns in the CAF Champions League second preliminary round against Mbabane Swallows in mid-September. He opened his account with a powerful shot into the bottom corner, showcasing his trademark style. Rayners has been a standout performer for the Tshwane giants, and he will be aiming to continue his impressive form in the Champions League group stage.
Furthermore, Rayners opened the scoring in the Carling Knockout final, illustrating he is the man for the big occasion!
How to watch
The match is scheduled to kick-off at 18:00 on Tuesday, 26 November and will be carried live on the public broadcaster’s radio stations for commentary. The match will be broadcast live on SABC 2 and satellite TV giants SuperSport channel 209 . Additionally, you can stream the fixture on DStv Stream and SABC+.
Loftus Versfeld Stadium
The 51,000-seater Loftus Versfeld Stadium will host the crucial CAF Champions League clash between Mamelodi Sundowns and AS Maniema Union.
The venue has been a formidable fortress for Sundowns, who dominated the South African top flight last season, winning 13 of their 15 league matches played there. Shared with the Blue Bulls rugby team, Loftus Versfeld has witnessed numerous iconic sporting events, including the 2023 African Football League final, multiple Currie Cup finals, and the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup.
Betting odds (supplied by Hollywoodbets)
To win (90 min)
Mamelodi Sundowns 1/5 | Draw 39/10 | Maniema Union 15/1
Things have not been going well for Mamelodi Sundowns these days, but they have enough quality to bounce back. They are way more experienced than their counterparts who’ll play their first ever champions league game. Back Sundowns on the win and BTTS (yes) at 7/2.