Mamelodi Sundowns will look to confirm their place in the CAF Champions League group stages when they host Nigerian champions Remo Stars in the second leg of their preliminary round tie at Loftus Versfeld on Sunday.
The Betway Premiership leaders carry a commanding 5–1 advantage from the first leg in Ikenne, where their clinical display saw them take a huge step towards a potential 11th consecutive group-stage appearance.
With four goals in the second half, the Brazilians showcased their attacking depth and continental experience — qualities that have defined their dominance in Africa over the past decade.
Despite the comfortable position, head coach Miguel Cardoso has warned against complacency, reminding his players that the second leg is an opportunity to reinforce their standards rather than cruise through.
“It is an important match ahead, where we have a big responsibility,” said Cardoso.
“We do not relate with the results that come from the first match. We relate with the opportunity that we have to make a statement of the work we have been doing.”
Sundowns enter the clash eager to reassert themselves after recent disappointments in domestic competitions.
They have already been knocked out of both the MTN8 and the Carling Knockout Cup — the latter defeat coming at the hands of Marumo Gallants — leaving continental progression as a crucial objective in their early campaign.
Still, the Pretoria giants remain unbeaten in the Betway Premiership and sit comfortably at the summit of the standings.
Cardoso, who has recorded 33 wins in 53 matches since taking charge, continues to fine-tune a system based on high-tempo pressing and patient build-up play, one that has kept Sundowns ahead of their rivals both at home and in Africa.
Remo Stars, on the other hand, face a monumental task. The Nigerian champions were outplayed on home soil last week and must now overturn a four-goal deficit away from home — a near-impossible challenge against one of the continent’s most consistent teams.
For Sundowns, the emphasis will be on discipline, game management, and maintaining momentum heading into the group phase.
With key figures such as Teboho Mokoena, Ronwen Williams, and Peter Shalulile expected to feature, the Brazilians are likely to impose themselves early and control proceedings throughout.
A professional performance at Loftus would not only seal Sundowns’ passage into the group stages but also reaffirm their continental intent following a mixed start to the domestic season.
