‘You get wiser, recognition by playing in CAF’
Downs now face last PSL hurdle
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane has highlighted the benefits of playing in the CAF Champions League ahead of what would be a mustwin against Highlands Park at Makhulong Stadium tomorrow (3pm).
Sundowns have already lost the Absa Premiership title to Bidvest Wits this season, but “Jingles” said playing in Africa’s elite competition has far bigger rewards for the club.
The Brazilians are currently second on the log, which guarantees them a 2018 Champions League spot.
But a draw or loss for Sundowns against relegationthreatened Highlands Park and a win for third-placed Cape Town City against Polokwane City will see the Cape side leapfrog Sundowns into second spot.
Sundowns can only be sure of a 2018 Champions League spot if they retain the title.
“The game on Saturday is very important and we have to play in the Champions League for the fourth year in a row.
“That’s why we want to win on Saturday,” said Mosimane, following his side’s 3-1 victory over AS Vita in Kinshasa, DRC, on Wednesday.
“It’s important for the team to play in the Champions League because you get wiser and get recognition on the continent.”
Mosimane also said playing on the continent gives his team an advantage in the transfer market.
“As you go on like this for a third year without rest, you are going to have injuries, players lose form and get tired.
“So we have to freshen up the team and try to get a few [new] players who are hungry.
“These are players who will see the opportunity to play in the Champions League, Super Cup and Fifa Club World Cup. That’s the carrot we dangle to recruit players,” he said.
Mosimane also hailed his players’ fighting spirit against Vita midweek.
“We thought we would win [the Premiership] again this year but Wits did well and credit to them. But we have to continue our international programme and make the country proud,” Mosimane added.
Goals from Anthony Laffor, Yannick Zakri and Sibusiso Vilakazi secured maximum points in Kinshasa on Wednesday to keep the Brazilians in contention to reach the quarterfinals.
Sundowns share Group C top spot on four points from two matches with Tunisia’s Esperance.