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What will it take for Sundowns to win Champions League? Rulani answers

Mamelodi Sundowns coach, Rulani Mokwena, has outlined the key factors he believes are necessary for his team to clinch their second CAF Champions League title.

The Tshwane giants first conquered Africa in 2016 when they were crowned champions under the guidance of renowned coach Pitso Mosimane.

However, last season, Sundowns suffered a heartbreak as they lost in the semi-finals against Moroccan giants Wydad AC on goal difference.

Already this campaign, Masandawana have already won the inaugural African Football League [AFL] champions. This tournament featured top African clubs, including Al Ahly and Wydad AC.

Sundowns have already booked a spot in this season’s Champions League knockout stages. They sit at the summit of Group B with 10 points at par with TP Mazembe.

Soweto-born mentor Rulani Mokwena says to win the Champions League; his troops have to be consistent and have some luck.

MOKWENA’S TAKE ON WINNING THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Mokwena likened Sundowns’ situation to Ivory Coast who won the 2023 AFCON and Al Ahly who are the reigning Champions League champions. In the early stages of these competitions, both sides were almost eliminated, but they went all the way to win the respective competitions.

Mamelodi Sundowns players celebrate a goal
Mamelodi Sundowns players. Picture courtesy of Mamelodi Sundowns

“What will it take for us to win the Champions League? It will take a lot of consistency, a lot of hard work and a lot of luck. In this competition, to win, you need a little bit of luck,” said Mokwena.

“Last season for example with one game to go, Al Ahly are already out of the competition. Look at the AFCON; these types of competitions that are high level, there’s not so much difference between the big teams.

“Look at Ivory Coast, their story with how they won AFCON. Already out, coach out and these people after the last group match qualified, they go with that momentum and lift that trophy, same with Al Ahly.

Mokwena further reflected on Mamelodi Sundowns’ AFL success. “Let’s speak a little bit about our victory in the AFL,” he added.

“You go to Egypt [first leg], first half you get a penalty against you, you have 10-man and it’s difficult. But you need to be brave and show a lot of courage. You have to be there, when you’re there, you can develop a little bit further. You can feel the need to outstretch your wings and try to see slightly more than you have.

“As daunting as the task may seem, it’s something that we believe is possible [winning Champions League], something within reach. You got to go one stage of the competition at a time and to perform. Hopefully, football gods smile up for you,” concluded Mokwena.

RELATED STORY: Mokwena says Caf CL blow out doesn’t taint ‘a good season’

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