Mamelodi Sundowns should not celebrate beating 'champions of a weak league' Remo Stars as even 'the Nigeria national team has become mediocre'

Mamelodi Sundowns legend Joe Masilela has explained why the Premier Soccer League heavyweights' win over Remo Stars in the Champions League should not be celebrated.  

Fire, as Masilela is famously known, said that Remo Stars are a weak team and champions of a weak Nigeria Premier Football League.

"I didn't even celebrate the 5-1 win in the first leg. These are weak teams," Masilela told KickOff.

"The Nigerian league is no longer competitive. Even their national team has become mediocre. It's clear they are struggling.

"It’s not the strong, competitive Nigerian league we once knew. Remo Stars may be champions, but they're champions of a weak league. If you compare it to our Betway Premiership, you will see a big difference," he added.

“So, we shouldn't read too much into how Sundowns perform against Remo Stars. Look at the Nigerian national team; it's no longer a team that strikes fear."

Despite their struggle on the domestic front, Masandawana began their Champions League with a convincing 5-1 victory over their Nigerian rivals on their own turf.

However, their legend has poured cold water on the club's away win, arguing that Nigeria's football development pales in comparison to South Africa's in terms of competitiveness.  

Before facing Remo Stars, the Brazilians had been eliminated from the Carling Knockout Cup by Marumo Gallants, raising more questions on whether they are as competitive an outfit as they were before.

After reaching the final and falling to Pyramids FC, Sundowns hope to have a successful campaign this season, but must bring their A-game if that dream is to be achieved.  

The result means the Tshwane giants have one foot in the group stage but must complete the task in the second-leg encounter.

Downs will host Remo Stars on October 26 at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.