Mamelodi Sundowns’ CAF Champions League journey will officially kick off in Nigeria.
The Betway Premiership champions have been paired with Remo Stars in the second preliminary round, with the first leg set for 17 October away from home.
The return fixture will be played in Tshwane a week later on 24 October.
REMO STARS TO HOST MAMELODI SUNDOWNS IN THE CAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Remo Stars booked their place with a comfortable aggregate victory over US Zilimandjou of Comoros. The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) champions beat the islanders 4-0 in Abeokuta before ending the tie with a 1-0 win away, sealing a 5-0 triumph over two legs.
WHO ARE REMO STARS?
Founded in 2004 by Kunle Soname, Sky Blue Stars’ rise has been remarkable. They first played in the NPFL in 2016, suffered relegation, but bounced back in 2021 to become one of Nigeria’s most consistent sides. Their biggest milestone came last season when they clinched a first-ever NPFL title, finishing 10 points clear of Rivers United.
Sundowns, on the other hand, enter the competition at this stage thanks to their CAF ranking and last season’s deep run to the final. Miguel Cardoso’s side avoided the opening round qualifiers and will now have to navigate a tricky trip to West Africa.
SUNDOWNS SIGN TWO PORTUGUESE PLAYERS
Meanwhile, Kabo Yellow have dipped into the Portuguese market to fire up what was already a powerful squad. They have confirmed the signings of two midfielders from Liga Portugal.
Nuno Santos, a 26-year-old attacking midfielder, arrived from Vitória Guimarães SC for a reported fee of R20 million.
The second capture is Miguel Reisinho, also 26, a left-footed central midfielder who comes in as a free agent after leaving Boavista in July.
Also read: Sundowns player’s transfer collapses in the final hour