Mamelodi Sundowns got off to a winning start in the CAF Champions League as they thrashed Burundi champions Bumamuru FC 4-0 on Friday in the second preliminary round, first leg.
The Tshwane giants are now unbeaten in nine matches in all competitions this season. They have been grinding results following eight victories and one stalemate against rivals Kaizer Chiefs.
To add, they have been ruthless in front of goal and solid at the back. So far, Sundowns have found the back of the net 19 times and conceded only three goals.
Bumamuru were forced to move their home game to Tanzania at Azam Complex Stadium. This was because their stadiums do not meet CAF standards.
The trio of Lucas Ribeiro [brace], Lesiba Nku and Peter Shalulile were on the scoresheet. This was Ribeiro’s six goal in eight matches coupled by two assists.
As for Nku it was his third in eight appearances. Shalulile made a return after missing four matches due to injury.
STRONG MAMELODI SUNDOWNS LINE-UP
Coach Rulani Mokwena fielded a strong side as he had said that they won’t be taking the game lightly, despite that the Burundi Premier League champions were making their debut in the champions league.
Skipper Themba Zwane returned to the starting line-up. The 34-year-old had sustained an injury against Chiefs in the MTN8 semifinal, first leg.
The trio of Terrence Mashego, Mosa Lebusa and Bathusi Aubaas who have been struggling for gametime due to stiff competition started the encounter.
Prior to the match, Mokwena had given his view on playing on surface saying, “Playing on astroturf is a little bit different. It has it’s pros and cons with the potential pressure it places on the joints and the risk of muscular injuries.
“However, the surface also allows for an increased speed of the game, which suits us, and we can play with intensity and tempo. We are looking forward to adapting to the conditions in Tanzania.”
MAMELODI SUNDOWNS HALFWAY THROUGH TO CHAMPIONS LEAGUE GROUP STAGES
The massive victory saw Bafana Ba Style put one foot to qualifying for the group stages. The reverse leg will be played at Lucas Moripe Stadium, Pretoria on 30 September.
This campaign the Brazilians will be going for gold once again. Last season they were knocked out of the competition by Moroccan giants Wydad AC in the semifinals.
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