Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams believes that hosting the second leg of the CAF Champions League final in Pretoria would have been ideal, but the team must now focus on taking control in the first leg against AS FAR on Sunday.
The Brazilians have struggled defensively in recent matches, with goalkeeper Ronwen Williams conceding seven goals in the last two games, and will be eager to keep a clean sheet at home to gain an advantage in the competition.
Importance of Home Advantage
With the away-goal rule still applicable in the competition, keeping a clean sheet at home could prove crucial for Sundowns. The team endured heartbreak in last season’s final after drawing 1-1 at home against Pyramids FC in the first leg before losing 2-1 away in Cairo, going down 3-2 on aggregate.
According to the CAF Champions League format, the team that wins the competition will be crowned the best club in African football, and Sundowns will be eager to replicate the class of the 2016 side that won the title.
Previous Experience
Sundowns last lifted the continental crown 10 years ago when they beat Zamalek SC 3-0 at home before losing 1-0 in Cairo, still securing a 3-1 aggregate victory. Despite that success, Adams admitted he would have preferred the decisive leg to be played in South Africa.
Here are three reasons why Sundowns must win the first leg:
- Build momentum: A win in the first leg will give Sundowns the momentum they need to carry into the second leg.
- Defensive solidity: Keeping a clean sheet at home will be crucial in giving Sundowns an advantage in the competition.
- History: Sundowns have a rich history in the CAF Champions League, and winning the first leg will be a step towards creating more history.
The return leg of the final is scheduled for May 24 in Rabat, and Sundowns will be eager to travel with at least a narrow advantage and, ideally, a clean sheet from the first encounter.
