After being held by Yanga SC in Tanzania in the CAF Champions League quarter-final first leg, Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has made a major declaration ahead of the second leg.
The Brazilians and Yanga played out to a 0-0 draw at a packed Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on Saturday evening.
Despite having the lion’s share of ball possession, Mokwena’s men couldn’t find the breakthrough to get an away goal.
The two will clash again in the return tie on Friday, 5 April, at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria.
When asked whether Sundowns would make it to the next stage, Mokwena was quick to state that he “thinks” his side will seal the semi-final spot.
RULANI MOKWENA SAYS SUNDOWNS WILL BE IN NEXT ROUND
“Yeah of course I think we will see Sundowns in the next round,” said Mokwena in the post-match press conference.
“I’m very confident about that, in fact. What’s the plan? The plan is to get home safe now, rest, drink lots of water, sleep, analyse the game and prepare for Richards Bay.
“We’ve got a very important league game on Tuesday. So, that’s the plan for now.”
Bafana Ba Style played the first leg without the club’s captain Themba Zwane due to suspension.
This was after he accumulated yellow cards in the group stages.
Mokwena admitted that they missed the Bafana Bafana playmaker. He’s delighted the 34-year-old will be available for selection next week.
ZWANE TO RETURN FOR SECOND LEG
“He’s the captain of the team and he’s an important part of the team,” he added.
“Of course, we missed him a little bit today but everyone tried. I’m happy with the commitment and the effort of the team, especially in the second half.
“Okay, let’s build on that. It’s not always easy coming from the FIFA break. The first game after the international break.
“But okay, let’s see how it goes.”
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