Mamelodi Sundowns are on the verge of confirming their 10th consecutive CAF Champions League group-stage berth this weekend.
They welcome Nigeria’s Remo Stars to Loftus Versfeld holding a commanding lead in the Second Preliminary Round tie.
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Commanding First-Leg Performance
The PSL powerhouse arrives with a dominant 5-1 aggregate advantage secured in the first leg in Abeokuta, Nigeria. Sundowns completely dismantled the Nigerian Premier Football League side with a ruthless attacking display.
The tie was virtually sealed by halftime following goals from Tashreeq Matthews, Peter Shalulile, and Miguel Reisinho. Arthur Sales added a fourth before Samson Olasupo offered Remo Stars a flicker of hope. However, loanee Katlego Ntsabeleng rounded off the impressive victory with his first goal for the club.
New Signings Shine
Head coach Miguel Cardoso praised his team’s professional performance, highlighting the immediate impact of several new arrivals. “It was a very professional performance,” Cardoso said. “The new players have settled quickly and showed they can make an impact at this level.”
Reisinho and Ntsabeleng both netted their debut goals for Sundowns, while Portuguese winger Nuno Santos, another recent signing, provided an assist. Matthews also stood out, rediscovering his scoring form after a recent period of inconsistency.
Shalulile Underlines Commitment
Star striker Peter Shalulile, who was subject to transfer speculation during the last window, underlined his commitment by netting a typically composed finish. His goal in Nigeria extended his impressive tally in CAF competitions to 16 for Sundowns.
Sundowns’ progression is all but mathematically assured, largely due to their five away goals—the crucial tiebreaker in two-legged CAF fixtures. The team, last season’s Champions League runners-up, also benefited from extra preparation time after their midweek domestic fixture against Sekhukhune United was postponed.
Injuries and Depth
While the squad’s depth is immense, injuries remain a slight concern. Thapelo Morena and Iqraam Rayners are doubtful, and captain Themba Zwane continues his recovery from a long-term setback. Nevertheless, the squad remains formidable, with quality players like Bafana Bafana winger Thapelo Maseko ready to step in.
Remo Stars Face an Improbable Task
For Remo Stars, the objective is monumental: they must overturn a four-goal deficit away from home against one of Africa’s most consistent sides. Since winning the title in 2016, Sundowns have reached at least the quarter-finals in every campaign except one, underscoring their pedigree at this level.
Kick off at the Loftus Versveld Stadium is set for 15h30 tomorrow afternoon.