Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Marcelo Allende was in confident mood after their 1-0 win over ASFAR Rabat in the first leg of the CAF Champions League final, insisting the squad has the mentality to see the job through in the return fixture.
“It was an important win, without conceding a goal at home, so important and we have the whole week now to prepare in the best way for the second leg,” the Chilean said in the mixed zone after the match.
- ALSO READ: Sundowns Stranded at OR Tambo, Return Home After Failed Departure
- Cardoso – This Sundowns Star Can Play For Bafana
Allende was open about the toll of a busy run-in but made clear that nobody at the club is looking for sympathy. For a side competing across multiple competitions deep into the season, the fixture pile-up is simply part of the deal.
“We’re coming from a lot of games in this last part of the season, but we know we’re in Mamelodi, we have to play many games, many competitions and we want to take everyone home,” he said.
The midfielder was equally firm on the squad’s collective attitude, dismissing any suggestion that fatigue might become a factor as the final reaches its decisive stage.
“It’s the price you pay when you play for this type of club. Everyone is clear on this and we have a good mentality,” he added.
Sundowns head into the second leg with a clean sheet in the bank and, if Allende’s words are anything to go by, a dressing room that is fully locked in.
Did you know that the iDiski Times Digital Newspaper is completely free! Download it now by clicking the button below or fill in the form to have it sent to you every week.