Cupido demands full focus as Sundowns defend slim lead in CAF Champions League semi-final

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Keanu Cupido has issued a rallying cry ahead of the club’s pivotal CAF Champions League semi-final second leg against Espérance Sportive de Tunis, emphasizing a relentless drive to secure continental glory.

Speaking at the club’s Chloorkop headquarters on Wednesday, Cupido reflected on the lessons learned from previous campaigns as the Brazilians prepare to host the Tunisian giants at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday, April 18, 2026.

Holding a slender 1-0 aggregate lead following a historic away victory in Tunis, Cupido made it clear that the squad’s ambition extends beyond mere qualification for the final.

“We have another opportunity to go all out,” Cupido stated. “It was a lesson for us, so going into the next game, we know that we want to win, go to the final, and win the tournament. We’re taking it each game at a time, focusing on this one, and the others will come”.

The 28-year-old defender’s role has taken on added significance following the suspension of veteran center-back Grant Kekana, who received a red card during the first leg.

Cupido is expected to anchor a reshuffled backline alongside younger prospects like Khulumani Ndamane or Kegan Johannes.

Despite the “big blow” of losing Kekana’s experience, Cupido expressed high confidence in the team’s depth and collective belief.

Sundowns are on the verge of reaching back-to-back finals under coach Miguel Cardoso, fueled by a desire to end a decade-long wait for their second star.

A clean sheet on Saturday afternoon, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00 local time, would be enough to see the South African champions through to the showpiece event.

With the match at Loftus Versfeld nearly sold out, the atmosphere is set to be electric as Sundowns look to capitalize on their home-ground advantage and fulfill what Cupido describes as a “dream for every player in the country”.