+18 | Commercial Content | T&C's Apply | Play Responsibly | Publishing Principles
Miguel Cardoso, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage
Dumisani Koyana

Predicting Mamelodi Sundowns' XI to face Espérance in the Caf Champions League quarter-finals – Can Miguel Cardoso outshine his former side?

Downs' quest for continental glory faces a tough challenge as they meet the side that eliminated them last year, giving them a shot at redemption.

Mamelodi Sundowns are gearing up for a highly anticipated Caf Champions League quarter-final clash against Esperance, the very team that ended their journey in last year’s competition.

However, this time, the narrative takes an interesting twist as the man now leading Masandawana, Miguel Cardoso, was on the opposite bench during that elimination.

The Portuguese tactician, who previously coached Esperance, now has a chance to guide the Brazilians to redemption.

With the first leg set to take place at Loftus Versfeld on April 1st, Sundowns will be eager to capitalize on their home advantage and take control of the tie before heading to Tunisia for the return leg.

Here, GOAL picks Sundowns' first choice 11 and forecasts how the Portuguese is likely to line up his team against Esperance.

Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱
  • Ronwen Williams, Mamelodi Sundowns, January 2025.BackPagePix

    GOALKEEPER: Ronwen Williams

    A commanding presence in goal, his shot-stopping ability and leadership make him a crucial last line of defence.

    • Advertisement
  • Khuliso Mudau, Mamelodi Sundowns, March 2025Backpagepix

    RIGHT-BACK: Khuliso Mudau

    A relentless right-back, his pace and overlapping runs provide both defensive stability and attacking width.

  • Aubrey Modiba, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

    LEFT-BACK: Aubrey Modiba

    A versatile left-back, his crossing ability and attacking instincts add an extra dimension to Sundowns' attack.

  • Grant Kekana, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

    CENTRE-BACK:Grant Kekana

    Strong and composed defender, his aerial ability and positional awareness make him key in dealing with set-pieces.

  • Lucas Suarez and Linda Mntambo, Mamelodi Sundowns vs Sekhukhune UnitedBackpage

    CENTRE-BACK: Luis Suárez

    Very composed left-footed defender, his ability to play out from the back and strong tackling make him vital for Sundowns’ defensive structure.

  • Teboho Mokoena, Mamelodi Sundowns

    CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Teboho Mokoena

    He is a midfield powerhouse, his ability to break up play and dictate the tempo makes him essential in controlling the game.

  • Menzi Masuku, Golden Arrows & Marcello Allende, Mamelodi Sundowns, October 2024BackPagePix

    CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Marcelo Allende

    A creative playmaker, his vision and passing range help unlock defences and create goal-scoring opportunities.

  • Jayden Adams, Mamelodi Sundowns, February 2025.BackPagePix

    ATTACKING MIDFIELDER: Jayden Adams

    Dynamic midfielder, his dribbling and ability to transition quickly from defence to attack brings energy to the midfield.

  • Iqraam Rayners, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

    RIGHT ATTACKER: Iqraam Rayners

    A clinical attacker, his pace and sharp instincts in the box make him a dangerous goal-scoring option.

  • Lucas Ribeiro Costa & Siphesihle Mkhize, Mamelodi Sundowns vs Sekhukhune UnitedBackpagepix

    LEFT ATTACKER: Lucas Ribeiro

    A skillful forward, his technical ability and composure in front of goal make him a constant threat in the final third.

  • Peter Shalulile, Mamelodi Sundowns

    CENTRE-FORWARD: Peter Shalulile

    Prolific striker, his movement, pressing, and finishing ability ensure he remains a nightmare for defenders.