What Rulani Mokwena is banking on to complete a double over Al-Hilal

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena during a DStv Premiership match against Royal AM

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has revealed what he’s banking on to complete a double over Sudan powerhouse Al-Hilal in the CAF Champions League.

The two sides renew their rivalry on Saturday 18 March at Al-Hilal Stadium at 3pm. In the reverse fixture, Masandawana came out victorious winning with a narrow 1-0 scoreline.

Sundowns have already sealed a spot in the knockout stages of the competition with two games left. They are aiming to finish on a high note and at the summit of the group with Hilal on their heels.

RULANI MOKWENA ON HIS PLAYERSโ€™ MENTALITY

The mentor is banking on his players’ mentality to ensure they continue with their winning run.

โ€œIn our favour, mentality is the preparation and the commitment of the group. The mentality is good,โ€ said Mokwena.

Rulani Mokwena and Mamelodi Sundowns players celebrate goal
Mamelodi Sundowns players celebrate a goal. Picture by Mamelodi Sundowns

โ€œThe players are focused working very hard to play against a difficult side in a very difficult environment with a lot of conditions against us. Iโ€™m happy with the spirit amongst the players, the work ethic is very pleasing to see.

โ€œAfter a lot of hours of travelling. We arrived to get a bit of rest and adaptation session so that the work can continue with matchday minus one. Now we have to put together the final preparations to be ready for a difficult game on Saturday.

AL-HILALโ€™S FORM IN THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Despite winning the first leg, Mokwena expects a difficult match as the Sudanese outfit have been doing well and are in great form in the competition.

Theyโ€™ve registered three consecutive victories in the competition. Their shocking result was defeating Al Ahly 1-0 at home.

โ€œThey are a difficult side, Al-Hilal, they have won their games. A very important game that they won was against Al Ahly under same conditions,โ€ he added.

RELATED STORY: What has made โ€˜intelligentโ€™ Rulani Mokwena successful at young age