South African Mamelodi Sundowns giants complete 7–1 aggregate win, marking 11th consecutive group stage appearance.
In a commanding performance, Mamelodi Sundowns secured their place in the CAF Champions League group stage with a 2–0 victory over Remo Stars in the second leg of the second preliminary round. This result, combined with their 5–1 win in the first leg, gave them a 7–1 aggregate triumph, marking their 11th consecutive appearance in the group stage.
Kick-off to Final Whistle
The match at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria saw Sundowns take control early. Portuguese midfielder Nuno Santos opened the scoring in the 20th minute, capitalizing on a well-executed team move. Just before halftime, Peter Shalulile doubled the lead, effectively sealing the tie for the South African side.
The Decisive Moment
The turning point came early in the match, with Sundowns’ early goals putting Remo Stars on the back foot. Despite their best efforts, the Nigerian champions couldn’t overcome the deficit, and Sundowns’ clinical finishing ensured their progression.
What This Means for Both Teams
For Mamelodi Sundowns, this victory underscores their dominance in African club football, extending their impressive record in the CAF Champions League. Their consistent performance highlights their status as one of the continent’s top clubs. Conversely, Remo Stars exit the competition with valuable experience, which they can leverage in future continental campaigns.
Reaction and What’s Next
Post-match, Sundowns’ coach Miguel Cardoso expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum as they head into the group stage. Meanwhile, Remo Stars’ coach Daniel Ogunmodede acknowledged the team’s shortcomings but remained optimistic about their future prospects in domestic competitions. Stay with Hot Sports Scoops for exclusive Nigerian-focused sports coverage — home and abroad.