South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns have expressed confidence as they prepare to complete their CAF Champions League assignment against Nigeria’s Remo Stars this weekend.
The Brazilians, who secured a slim advantage in the first leg, are determined to wrap up the tie in style and advance to the next round of the competition.
Sundowns’ head coach, Rulani Mokwena, said his team is focused on maintaining their high standards and will not underestimate their Nigerian opponents despite holding a narrow lead. “Remo Stars are a very organized side, and we know they will come out strong at home. But we are ready to finish the job professionally,” Mokwena said ahead of the match.
The first leg, played in Pretoria, ended in a hard-fought contest with Sundowns edging a 1–0 win courtesy of a goal from Peter Shalulile. Remo Stars, making their second appearance in the CAF Champions League, showed resilience throughout the encounter and have promised to put up a better performance in the return leg in Ikenne, Ogun State.
Remo Stars coach Daniel Ogunmodede said his players are motivated to overturn the deficit and make history by advancing to the next stage. “We respect Sundowns, but we have prepared well. The boys understand what’s at stake, and we’ll fight till the final whistle,” he said.
Sundowns, who have consistently been among Africa’s strongest sides in recent years, are eyeing another deep run in the competition after reaching the semifinals last season. Their experience and tactical discipline will be key as they seek to avoid an upset in Nigeria.
The return leg promises to be an intense encounter, with both teams eager to secure a place in the lucrative group stage. Nigerian fans are hopeful that Remo Stars can draw inspiration from home support to produce one of the tournament’s biggest surprises.