Teko Modise identifies the 'disadvantage' facing Mamelodi Sundowns ahead of Caf Champions League final against Pyramids FC - 'When we won it in 2016, nobody was scared of us'

Mamelodi Sundowns made it to their second Caf Champions League final and will meet Pyramids FC.

They host the Egyptian moneybags at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday before travelling for the second leg at the 30 June Stadium on June 1.

Former Sundowns midfielder Teko Modise identifies the difference between the class of 2016, which won the Champions League for the first time ever, and the current crop.

“The disadvantage that Sundowns are facing is that on the continent, they are well-respected,” Modise told FARPost. 

“When we won it in 2016, nobody was scared of us, so the chances are, Mamelodi Sundowns have a better squad now. They know what’s at stake, they know the importance of winning this trophy. 

“You also have good quality players at Mamelodi Sundowns that also want to say, ‘I brought another star to Mamelodi Sundowns’.”

After years of getting closer to the final, it remains to be seen if Masandawana will falter at the last hurdle.

The likes of Themba Zwane, Denis Onyango and goalkeeper coach Kennedy Mweene were part of the 2016 champions.

Coach Miguel Cardoso also guided Esperance to the final last season and would not want to lose a second decider in a row.

The Brazilians are finalising their preparations for Saturday's first leg, hoping to claim a commanding lead which would make life easy for them when they go to Cairo.

While Sundowns are pushing for a second Champions League title, Pyramids are in a quest to be crowned African champions for the first time ever.