Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso states there’s no room for fear in crucial Caf Champions League clash against AS FAR - 'Just go there and play'

Mamelodi Sundowns are on the brink of qualifying for the Caf Champions League quarterfinals, needing just a draw against AS FAR at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

AS FAR have already secured their spot in the last eight, with the focus now on finishing top of the group.

Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso emphasized that there is no room for fear, urging his side to go out and win the match.

Cardoso believes fear can be a motivator, helping players remain aware and conscious of their objectives.

He believes in his players’ abilities, encouraging them to play as if they are sure they cannot lose.

Sundowns go into the game with confidence, having achieved a positive result in their previous away match.

“Well, basically, the first time I think about that, is now you highlighted it. I think that you will remember that can be a negative result,” Cardoso said as reported by iDiski Times.

“Look, if you have fear in football, if you have fear in life, is normally, you will accept fear. Everybody, when you face challenges, there is nothing that you have to fear.

“But as much as you deal with the fear, the best will be prepared for it. Fear is not wrong, because fear makes you aware. Fear makes you more conscious about you have what you have to do.

“But I always tell your players, if you knew you could not lose tomorrow, what would you do? That’s how you have to play.

“I think if you knew, what you would do, if you were sure you could not lose, how you would play. So just go there and play.”

A win would push Sundowns to the top of the group, but a draw would still suffice for them to qualify for the last eight.

A loss, however, could mean their exit from the competition, leaving them watching Orlando Pirates progress.

The team heads into this match with confidence from their recent good result away and is eager to have the full support of their fans at Loftus.

Masandawana fans are expected to be the extra player on the pitch, rallying behind their team for this crucial clash.

A victory could secure not only qualification but also a top spot, giving them momentum in the tournament.

Sundowns now face a big challenge against AS FAR, who are one point ahead in the group standings.

The Chloorkop-based side will need to bring their best performance to this crucial match.

The match kicks off at 18h00 in Pretoria, with Sundowns striving for a win.