Although their display was not entirely convincing, Masandawana managed to collect crucial points in their CAF Champions League campaign. Starting with three points in a group that has heavyweights like Rhulani Mokwena's MC Alger and Sudanese giants Al Hilal should be considered an early achievement for Downs, who hope to go all the way to the final again. Nuno Santos, who is having a good start to life with the Tshwane giants, keeps proving why he was signed by the Brazilians, who wanted a player who would bring the X factor.

Masandawana managed to outclass their first group stage opponents by securing a win in an end-to-end encounter at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday. Considered a group of death, Downs have collected their first three points after dispatching the Sea Robbers' tormentors. The home win is a morale boost for the Tshwane giants, who will face their former head coach, Rhulani Mokwena, in their next continental game.

The defending Premier Soccer League champions Masandawana are set for another massive challenge in the continental outing when they host the Chaminots at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday. A win for the Brazilians will be needed for them to avoid the pressure of making it out of the pool in their bid to go all the way and win the elusive second star.

Since lifting their first CAF Champions League crown in 2016, the Brazilians have been haunted by the elusive second star. Every season, the ambition burns brighter, yet heartbreak follows. Now, as they gear up to host Lupopo, Masandawana’s quest feels renewed - armed with depth, tactical clarity and continental hunger, this campaign could finally deliver the prize they covet most.

Mshishi has been sidelined due to an injury, causing him to miss several crucial Masandawana matches. While his leadership was certainly missed, the players who stepped in rose to the occasion, leaving the Tembisa-born midfielder pleased with his teammates’ performances. He remains confident that he still has what it takes to mount a strong challenge and reclaim his spot in the starting lineup.