With the warrior spirit still burning bright after helping Bafana Bafana secure a 2026 FIFA World Cup spot, Thapelo Morena is hoping Mamelodi Sundowns unleashes the same magic when they take on Remo Stars in the CAF Champions League.
Masandawana are set to take on Remo Stars of Nigeria in a CAF Champions League second preliminary round first-leg tie. The match is slated for Sunday, 19 October at the M.K.O. Abiola International Stadium in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Sundowns are hoping to set the tone in the 2025/26 edition of the continental tournament by beating Remo Stars. Last time out, the Miguel Cardoso-coached side endured a heartbreaking 3-2 aggregate defeat in last season’s final against Egyptian side Pyramids FC.
This time around, they are hoping for better strides, with Morena acknowledging the litmus test they are set to face in West Africa, Nigeria.
FREE ENTRY FOR THE REMO STARS VS SUNDOWNS CLASH
The Nigerian outfit Remo Stars has reportedly announced free entry for fans for this match. This move is meant to boost their support base. However, the Sundowns star, Morena, says they are prepared to handle the carnival atmosphere and achieve their goal.
“To be honest, it’s a great feeling and as a footballer you play for those moments [World Cup qualification]. This is the kind of achievement where no one will ever look back and say they regret not being part of it,” said Morena.
“We made sure, and we gave our level best to fight for this opportunity. It’s been a while since Bafana Bafana was in the FIFA World Cup.
“The atmosphere at first is going to be electric. Remember, after Bafana Bafana played against Nigeria, it’s Remo Stars for Sundowns. They won their first round of qualification to play against Mamelodi Sundowns.
“There are a lot of things that they want to see from Mamelodi Sundowns. So the atmosphere is going to be electric. From when we get to Nigeria, the game starts when we land in Nigeria. So we’re going to have to put our minds to it, and whatever comes our way, we just need to move it. I think they want the upper hand.”
MASANDAWANA UNFAZED SAYS THAPELO MORENA
Morena said they are unfazed by Remo Stars’ decision to offer free entry to their supporters. He said, “We are going in there to do business.”
“And also giving free entrance, you want the supporters to push the team. So with us, we go in there to do business and the business that we know is going to be in the field.
“We will definitely show that we do our level best and come with maximum points, because getting a game like this is also a booster for players…”
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