Dunston UTS Overview

The Tshwane giants have set the tone for the second leg after putting a healthy number of goals past their opponents at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Friday night, but the Malian outfit mentor remains confident that they can turn the tie around when they host the return fixture in Bamako.

The Brazilians delivered a masterclass on Friday evening in the Champions League clash against Stade Malien, leaving their opponents with no answers as Masandawana dominated proceedings in their own backyard. However, VAR stole the spotlight on the night, with Cardoso praising the technology for helping officials make the right decisions.

To boost their chances of reaching the semi-finals, Kabo Yellow needed a huge victory at home before focusing on the second leg. The Tshwane giants fought and claimed a win and a clean sheet, meaning they are on the right course to reach the last four. However, the battle is not over, as the Brazilians will travel to Mali for the second leg, a crucial battle where the Bamako-based side will be keen on pulling off a miracle.

The veteran midfielder remains one player the South Africa national football team could need at the global football tournament if he rediscovers his authority in the middle of the park. Currently used sparingly by Masandawana, he has yet to reach the top form that made him a dominant force in midfield. That has created anticipation over whether he can rise again and reclaim the midfield-king status he once enjoyed.