Former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder confident in Caf Champions semi-final success
Former Sundowns midfielder Bennett Mnguni expresses high confidence in Mamelodi Sundowns’ chances to secure a spot in the Caf Champions League final against Esperance de Tunis, highlighting their 1-0 first-leg advantage and strong home support. Seen here: Tebogo Mokoena of Mamelodi Sundowns challenged by Abdelrazig Taha of Al Hilal during the CAF Champions League at Loftus Versfeld.
Image: BackpagePix
Former Brazilian midfielder Bennett Mnguni believes Mamelodi Sundowns will be too strong for Esperance de Tunis (ES Tunis) in their Caf Champions League second-leg semi-final at Loftus Versfeld, in Pretoria, on Saturday. Kick-off is at 3pm.
Sundowns hold a 1-0 advantage from the first leg away against ES Tunis, and playing in front of a home crowd will mean the odds will be even more in their favour.
While Sundowns have not won the competition since 2016, they have won the last seven SA league titles in a row, cementing their status as the undisputed heavyweights of local football.
Mnguni has liked what he has seen from Sundowns in the Champions League, and in particular their hard-fought win in the first leg.
Mnguni Expresses High Hopes and Confidence Ahead of Champions League Final
“We have played very well compared to the previous games we played,” Mnguni told Sportsboom.co.za.
“When you play in the Champions League and you're away from home, you try to get a goal and gain the upper hand, but that doesn't mean the opponents won’t score, especially if you give them a chance.”
“However, we now have an advantage because we know how they play, and that works in our favour. We have a huge chance to make the final.”
The belief among the players and fans was at an exceptional high, explained Mnguni.
“I have a lot of trust in the boys. You could tell in the first leg that they didn’t go into the match to draw, but went all out to win it.”
“My expectations are very high, not only to win the upcoming match but also the trophy. It’s very hard to reach the final, and I expect us this time to come back with the trophy.”