By Michael Madyira
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rhulani Mokwena is refusing to regard his side as favourites in Saturday’s CAF Champions League semi-final, second-leg showdown against Wydad Casablanca.
The Brazilians go into this match against the backdrop of a valiant performance in the away leg in Casablanca last week.
They held defending champions Wydad 0-0 with nine players after midfielders Neo Maema and Marcelo Allende were red-carded.
It was a demonstration of strong character by Masandawana but Mokwena says it does not mean they have sealed a spot in the final.
“It’s only halftime, so there is the second half to play against the defending champions and we are looking forward to it,” Mokwena told the media.
“The team is ready and we will do the best we can to win the match. To have a good match, you need very good teams. We need our team, of course, to perform very well with 100% focus, and then you need a strong opposition.
“I’m sure like we saw in the first leg, we saw a very good Wydad side with good players and a good coach. And that’s the team you need for these types of games.
Maema has been one of Sundowns’ best performers this season and Mokwena is yet to make up his mind on the midfielder’s replacement.
“I don’t know yet,” said Mokwena.
The Masandawana coach is, however, banking on other experienced players to carry them against the Moroccans.
“It’s incredible to see the leadership qualities that have been demonstrated by Themba Zwane,” Mokwena said.
“He is important for us and he is just as important as what you have seen with Teboho Mokoena and Ronwen Williams.
“We have a strong changing room, a very important changing room with very influential figures like Kennedy Mweene and Denis Onyango who don’t need to play to show leadership.”
The winner of the Loftus Versfeld battle will meet either Al Ahly or Esperance in the final.
Pictured above: Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rhulani Mokwena
Image source: Mamelodi Sundowns