Mamelodi Sundowns defender Zuko Mdunyelwa has opened up about the driving force behind his team as they prepare for a crucial CAF Champions League semifinal clash against Esperance this weekend.
The two sides are set to meet in the decisive second leg on Saturday at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, where Sundowns will look to build on their advantage.
The Brazilians secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory in the first leg played in Tunisia, with Brayan Leon netting the all-important second-half goal to give his side the edge.
Heading into the return fixture, Miguel Cardoso’s troops not only carry a narrow lead but also hold the valuable away-goal advantage, putting them in a strong position to progress to the final.
Mdunyelwa revealed that the pain of last season’s final defeat continues to motivate the squad, as they are determined to make amends and push for glory once again.
The team is chasing a second continental title—having first lifted the trophy in 2016—and is eager to add another star to their badge.
“We’re not focussing much on that, it’s a new season. So we are more positive, looking forward to the upcoming fixture,” said Mdunyelwa.
“But it did play its toll, that we don’t want to feel the way we felt last season. So that’s the spirit.”
