CAF Champions League: We are not scared facing Mamelodi Sundowns – FC Saint-Eloi Lupopo assistant coach Yassine Salmi

FC Saint-Eloi Lupopo assistant coach Yassine Salmi has issued a confident warning to Mamelodi Sundowns ahead of their CAF Champions League group stage clash.

The Congolese side will make their group stage debut on Saturday afternoon against the South African champions, who finished as runners-up in last season’s tournament.

Lupopo previously travelled to South Africa in October, where they defeated Orlando Pirates in a penalty shoot-out but suffered a 3-0 loss in the return leg.

Despite that mixed record, Salmi insists his team will not be intimidated in Pretoria.

“They are one of the biggest teams in Africa,” Salmi said, as per CAF Online.

“They have earned this title by lifting the title and reaching the final last season. We have to give them the respect but not fear them. This is a competitive tournament and every team that is here is equally competitive.

“We have worked hard to be here and will give it our best against Sundowns and all other teams,” he added.