Mamelodi Sundowns find themselves in a precarious position as they gear up for a pivotal CAF Champions League clash against AS Maniema Union in Kinshasa today (3pm SA time kick-off).
The South African champions’ chances of progressing to the quarter-finals are hanging by a thread after a series of disappointing results, including a recent 1-0 loss to Raja Casablanca that tested the mettle of coach Miguel Cardoso’s side.
After a shaky start in the group stages, Sundowns sit second with five points, but a loss against the DRC outfit could see them leapfrogged by Maniema, currently lying at the bottom of Group B with three points.
This roller-coaster journey in the tournament has put immense pressure on the Brazilians, who are keen to reclaim the glory of being the 2016 champions.
Focused, fierce, and ready for tomorrow! 💪#Sundowns #TotalEnergiesCAFCL #RabatsenaGape pic.twitter.com/JxwoFlXYLG
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) January 10, 2025
Cardoso’s men had hoped to rally from their earlier performance against Maniema, where they were held to a surprising 1-1 draw at home in Pretoria.
That result has given Maniema a glimmer of hope as they look to exploit the South African side’s vulnerabilities, particularly in front of a daunting home crowd at the 80 000-seat Stade des Martyrs de la Pentecôte.
The stakes couldn’t be higher for both teams. Maniema’s coach Papy Kimoto believes that the outcome of this clash may very well determine their fate in the competition.
“This group will go down to the wire,” he asserted, referencing the competitive edge of the tournament and their determination to secure a spot in the group stages.
Despite Sundowns’ celebrated status in African football, their recent form has raised eyebrows.
With only one loss in four matches under Cardoso’s leadership, the Brazilians find themselves in unfamiliar territory, grappling with vulnerabilities that previously seemed non-existent.
The pressure is mounting as Cardoso works tirelessly to motivate his players and shift their focus away from the frustration experienced in Morocco, where they faced not only a defeat, but also the expulsion of key players Bathusi Aubaas and Khuliso Mudau due to red cards.
As Sundowns brace for this vital encounter, the players’ resilience and determination will be crucial in navigating this turbulent phase of their journey in the CAF Champions League.
Malibongwe Khoza has 92% accurate passes per game in the Champions League after four match days.
He’s a defender and just 20-years! Huge talent. 🔥
Only Teboho Mokoena comes close to him.#cafclwithmicky #sundowns pic.twitter.com/Wxh237COYF
Although with notable absentees from their squad, the in-form duo of Iqraam Rayners and Lucas Ribeiro Costa will be expected to carry Sundowns through.
The two players have recorded 28 goal involvements (14 each) between them already this season, and will spearhead the Brazilians latest charge for continental jubilation.
Going into enemy territory, Bafana Bafana and Sundowns captain Ronwen Williams will be one of the players the rest of the group will look to for experience and composure, with the pressure expected to be an all-time high in central Africa.
Will the reigning SA champions be able to silence the doubts and prove their mettle before the merciless backdrop of away pressure, or will Maniema achieve yet another upset that could spell disaster for Cardoso’s aspirations?
The answer awaits in the heart of Kinshasa. | Independent Media Sport