After navigating a difficult group stage to secure qualification, Mamelodi Sundowns will begin their CAF Champions League knockout campaign on Friday night when they host Malian side Stade Malien at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria.
The match will mark the first-ever meeting between the two clubs, with Masandawana welcoming the Malian champions to South Africa for the first leg of their quarter-final.
Pride
Speaking ahead of the clash, Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso expressed pride in reaching this stage of Africa’s premier club competition and emphasised his team’s ambition to progress further.
“Firstly, it’s a pleasure and a privilege to have reached this level of the competition. Obviously the stakes are a lot higher and we want to be amongst the best on the continent,” Cardoso said.
“We face this quarter-final with the intention to proceed. So, we will do our best in the two matches to make sure we reach the semifinals.”
Mamelodi Sundowns finished second in Group C, while Stade Malien topped Group D, recording three wins, one draw and one defeat in the group stage.
Confidence and focus
Despite their opponents’ strong showing, Cardoso insists his team will approach the tie with confidence and focus, while maintaining respect for the Malian outfit.
“We expect two tough matches. I don’t think there’s anything like an underrated team or an underdog. We will be facing an opponent that qualified for this round by finishing first in their group,” he explained.
“While we respect them, we know what we are capable of. It’s important that we stick to the plan, respect ourselves and respect our opponents.”
The Portuguese tactician also pointed to Mamelodi Sundowns’ previous home performance in the tournament as an example of the level he expects from his players.
“Our last home match in the Champions League was an example of what we want when we say we hope to give our best and show our best. That’s the same mentality and energy we will bring to this match.”
Pack the stands
Cardoso concluded by calling on the Yellow Nation to pack the stands and provide the atmosphere needed to inspire the team.
“We urge our supporters to bring the energy that we desire and deserve. The same energy they bring in every game, so that we can benefit from it. I hope the players will put on a good match so we can return that energy to our supporters.”
The match kicks off at 20:00, with live coverage on SuperSport and SABC.
Prediction
Mamelodi Sundowns 1-1 Stade Malien
