Mamelodi Sundowns’ crushing 7-1 aggregate victory over Remo Stars in the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League, sent out a clear message of intent as they aim to reclaim the elusive continental crown for the first time in nearly a decade.
The Brazilians cruised to a 2-0 win in the second leg against the Nigerian outfit, advancing comfortably to the group stages as the sole representative from South Africa. This came after rivals Orlando Pirates were eliminated over the weekend by DRC’s Saint Eloi Lupopo, losing 5-4 on penalties following a 3-3 aggregate scoreline.
It was an important step for Miguel Cardoso and his team, who, after falling short in last year’s final against Pyramids FC (3-2 on aggregate), will be expected to go one better this season and lift the title.
The Portuguese mentor was pleased with his side’s performance against the Nigerian Premier Football League champions, dismissing suggestions that they had faced weaker opposition. Instead, he praised his players for what he described as a “beautiful” display.
“I am certain Remo Stars came here to play, but we didn’t allow them to have the ball,” Cardoso said, after the match.
“That obviously made it much more difficult for them to play the game they wanted. We took the ball away from them.
“I said last week that every time Mamelodi Sundowns plays beautiful football, people don’t like to relate to it, and I don’t know why. It seems there isn’t an intention to make a normal evaluation of what happens on the pitch when we play.
“(Sunday) was a beautiful match, especially in the first half. In the second, the quality and control dropped a bit, and I don’t relate much with that half.”
The victory, however, does little to ease the pressure Cardoso has faced in recent weeks. With a place in the group stages now secured, his attention quickly turns to a domestic challenge against a wounded Orlando Pirates in the Betway Premiership this coming weekend.
Looking ahead to the next phase of the Champions League, the Sundowns coach emphasised the need for focus and respect for every opponent, regardless of reputation.
“What I expect from the draw is that it will be tricky and difficult,” Cardoso continued.
“There will be teams in pots three and four that are strong. Even if they’re not the big names, some will be very tough to play away from home.
“We need to take the competition very seriously because to play Champions League football, you must raise your level. Usually, this competition brings the best out of players.
“Now our focus shifts to what’s ahead—to make sure we reach those matches in a comfortable emotional position. Emotions help the football to flow, and with good performances and good results, you put yourself in a position to face the group stages with more confidence and belief, because that’s also important.”
Fourteen teams have already secured their places in the group stages, with two fixtures remaining this coming weekend, including defending champions Pyramids FC, who earned a 1-1 away draw against Ethiopian Insurance in their first leg.
The CAF Champions League group stage draw will take place on Monday next week.
