The Tshwane giants began their CAF Champions League title defence in Angola, where they had to settle for a share of the spoils despite missing several clear-cut opportunities. Miguel Cardoso's team will now look to make their chances count in the return leg as they aim to secure progress on home soil.
Masandawana legend Roger Feutmba has thrown his full support behind the head coach, insisting that the Portuguese tactician has earned the right to lead the club for the long term. Following a period of significant trophy success at Chloorkop, the former midfielder believes the recent contract extension awarded to the 54-year-old mentor is a just reward for his continental and domestic achievements.
GOAL brings you all the available details on the CAF Champions League Qualifying match between the Angolan league leaders and Bafana ba Style at the Estadio Nacional da Tundavala, Lubango, Angola. Sundowns will be desperate for a positive result they can take back to Pretoria for the second leg.
Mamelodi Sundowns have received a significant boost to their squad availability ahead of the upcoming FIFA Challenger Cup fixtures. The Brazilians will have a clean slate regarding disciplinary records after FIFA confirmed that previous cautions will not carry over into the next stage of the prestigious international competition.
Amakhosi are facing intense scrutiny following the early success of the playmaker at Chloorkop, with former club star David Kannemeyer labeling his release a mistake. The 29-year-old has already secured silverware with the Brazilians while his former side struggles for depth in the middle of the park.
The left-footed centre-back is refusing to let the weight of expectation or the noise of outside critics dampen his spirits following his high-profile move to Downs. The young defender, who arrived at Chloorkop as a deadline-day acquisition, has yet to make his competitive bow but remains fully convinced of his ability to break into Miguel Cardoso's starting eleven.
Sangiovannese
