‘They’re an African powerhouse but…’: Makudubela on Sundowns
Young Africans SC winger Mahlatse Makudubela has discussed what will be key to getting the desired results in a CAF Champions League tie against Mamelodi Sundowns.
The two sides will lock horns in the quarter-final second leg at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Friday, 5 March at 8:00 pm.
The first leg ended 0-0 at the fully packed Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
Yanga played without some of their key players last week – Pacome Zouzoua, Khalid Aucho, Kouassi Attohoula Yao and Kibwana Shomari. While they all travelled with the team to SA, it is uncertain whether they are fit for the return leg.
Makudubela says they are unfazed as he believes the Tanzanian giants have enough quality in their squad. He acknowledged Bafana Ba Style’s expertise in Africa, however, he stated that they are here to show what they are capable of.
He believes the “work ethic and determination” they showed last week will be key when they take on the 2016 Champions League winners.
MAKUDUBELA SAYS THEY HAVE ENOUGH QUALITY AND CONTINENTAL EXPERIENCE AT THE CLUB
“I think it will be more about talking about the quality that Young Africans have,” said Makudubela.
“In every FIFA break, we have about 11 to 13 players that are reporting for national team duties to their respective countries.
“We have Djigui Diarra who’s one of the greatest goalkeepers in Africa, we speak about [Khalid] Auchos leading his national team. We can also speak about the experience and quality that we have in our team from all over the country.
“And big ups to the technical team that is doing a great job with the quality of players that are within the team.
“With all due respect to Mamelodi Sundowns, the powerhouse of Africa, their history speaks volumes but like the coach said we come as underdogs to showcase what we can do.
“What we can promise is the determination, the same work ethic, and enthusiasm we have shown in Dar es Salaam. Nothing more, nothing less.”
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