Mamelodi Sundowns' Allende expects more direct Esperance at home in Caf Champions League last eight - 'Our goal is to finish the tie and qualify for the semifinals'

Mamelodi Sundowns’ hopes of getting revenge over Esperance remain high as they head into the second leg with a 1-0 lead courtesy of Peter Shalulile’s goal.

The Brazilians are just 90 minutes away from a place in the semi-finals of the Caf Champions League.

However, standing in their way is a familiar foe in Elias Mokwana’s Esperance, the same side that knocked them out at this stage last season.

Sundowns will need composure, discipline, and focus to avoid another heartbreak in Tunisia.

Marcello Allende spoke to the media and emphasized the importance of sticking to their game plan.

He believes patience and precision will be key to getting a result away from home.

The entire squad is motivated and determined to rewrite the story against the Tunisian giants.

“We must maintain that focus [from the first leg]; they are playing at home, they have to win. That will open up the game. It’s going to be exciting because we are Sundowns and we are here to win,” Allende said, as reported by Sowetan.

“We know set-play will be key. We’ve put in a lot of work on that, and it paid off in the first leg. When Esperance played in Pretoria, they sat back and waited. We just have to be patient, move the ball quicker and take our chances.

“Our goal is to finish the tie and qualify for the semifinals. We are fully focused on the away match, and we are happy with our win in the first leg.”

Miguel Cardoso returns to a club he knows well, one he helped guide to the final just last season.

This familiarity gives Sundowns a tactical edge ahead of the second leg.

He understands the dynamics of Esperance and will use that insight to disrupt their rhythm.

For Masandawana, reaching the semi-finals will not only avenge last season’s exit but also assert their dominance in African football.

Cardoso’s leadership is being tested early, and success here could solidify his credentials.

The mission is clear: conquer Tunisia and take a step closer to continental glory.

Sundowns face Esperance in the decisive second leg of their Caf Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday.

They will then turn their attention to their local rivals Kaizer Chiefs whom they face in the quarter-finals of the Nedbank Cup on Sunday, April 13.