Downs have no point to prove
MOKWENA: A SCORE TO SETTLE AGAINST TP MAZEMBE
Perhaps winning the African Football League (AFL) was Mamelodi Sundowns’ first warning shot to their rivals that they are ready to once again capture the big fish that has eluded them since 2016.
Claiming the inaugural AFL competition last year was a step in the right direction in the Brazilians’ quest for continental dominance but the Caf Champions League remains their main priority.
Sundowns are already in the quarterfinals of Africa’s coveted club competition but they still have a score to settle against fivetime Champions League winners TP Mazembe, whom they play at Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium today.
The winner of the much-anticipated clash will top Group A and be seeded in the next round of the knockout phase. Mazembe narrowly beat Sundowns 1-0 the last time the two teams met.
“I think if we still have to send a message then there’s something wrong. It’s the same thing I get asked about Peter Shalulile and if I’m worried about him, but I’m not because Peter has proven that he will score goals,” Downs coach Rulani Mokwena answered when asked if they have a point to prove against Mazembe.
“Sundowns have proven that they are one of the best teams on the continent and we will win the Champions League. Eventually we will win it. What we have to do is to make sure that our performances are good enough, we’re consistent and we work hard every single day to put ourselves in that position. That’s what we can concentrate on and control.”
Mokwena is well aware that his side are seen as favourites for this year’s title after the success in the AFL.
“What it does give you is a target on your back. I speak to the players about this all the time,” he said.
“I saw Thapelo Maseko put up a status on WhatsApp and he said he doesn’t believe what he has just done. I took a screenshot and saved it because sometimes players don’t realise that blessings and burdens are cousins.
“The blessing of having won the AFL comes with the burden and responsibility of having to carry this target on your back.”