Downs takes aim at Cameroon’s Coton Sport

Tumelo Mailula of Sundowns celebrates with fans during the 2023 CAF Champion League match between Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Hilal at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on 11 January 2023 ©Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix

Rhulani Mokwena, coach of Mamelodi Sundowns, says the team’s goal in the CAF Champions League is to gather as many points as possible to finish first in Group B. Sundowns earned three points last week after defeating Al Hilal of Sudan 1-0 in a thrilling match played at Loftus Versfeld Stadium. Playmaker Cassius Mailula scored the clinching goal. Sundowns, who are renowned for playing well and scoring frequently, were unable to do so against the Sudanese team.

Mokwena disregarded it, stating that a strong start to the CAF Champions League matches is what matters to him.

“Considering the conditions, we played quite well. The three points are vital at this stage,” Mokwena told reporters after the encounter in Pretoria.

“I’d like to congratulate the team on the three crucial points we got. We need to focus on making sure we win our games right now. Three points in the first game is something we’re pleased with.

“We need ten points in Group B to advance to the next round. The three points are what matters, not how you win. Unfortunately, our other goal was disallowed, so we should have scored more goals,” Mokwena stated following the game.

Sundowns will take on Coton Sport FC of Cameroon at 6pm on Friday in the CAF Champions League encounter at Roumde Adjia Stadium as they try to increase their point total.

Mokwena’s team will want to win this week’s game before facing Al Ahly in the third match. Players like Mthobi Mvala, Thapelo Morena, Peter Shalulile, and Themba Zwane will be crucial for Downs. Additionally, Mailula who scores goals in an amazing manner.

On Sunday afternoon at the Stade des Martyrs, Marumo Gallants and Saint Eloi Lupopo will play in the CAF Confederation Cup. In a Group A encounter last week, Gallants defeated Al Akhdar by a score of 4-1.