As Mamelodi Sundowns prepare to take on Pyramids FC in the CAF Champions League final second leg this weekend, Soccer Laduma looks at three things the Tshwane giants can do to secure another title on the continent.
Sundowns are in a tight spot after conceding on home soil at the death in the first leg, meaning Pyramids have an advantage of an away goal. Going into the clash, here are three things Sundowns need to do to get their hands on the title.
READ: WATCH: 'Start With Themba Zwane'
SCORE EARLY
The Tshwane giants need to score an early goal to get themselves back into the game and have an advantage, but the concern for Sundowns is that they have not scored early goals in this season's competition, from the group stages. From the group stages until now, Sundowns have only scored one first half goal, in the 1-1 draw against AS FAR, which was their final round robin match. That goal was scored in the 12th minute by Peter Shalulile and they would probably need to do the same to give themselves hope of winning. Conceding first would put them in a tough spot.
PLAY THEMBA ZWANE
He may not be as young as he used to be, but Zwane has shown time and again, especially in the Bafana Bafana squad, that he can rise to the occasion when needed the most. He was an unused substitute in the first leg at Loftus Stadium and there were calls for him to be included in the team.
READ: Overseas Return Possible For Sundowns Winger?
CUT SUPPLY TO MAYELE
Pyramids striker Fiston Mayele, who has eight goals in the competition this season, was kept quiet in the first leg. The second leg, however, could be different as Pyramids are expected to attack more. This means that their tricky wingers will be whipping more balls into the box in an effort to find Mayele upfront. Sundowns should not only keep Mayele quiet, but they should ensure that they cut the supply to the DRC international striker or else they could pay the price.
