Leon confident Mamelodi Sundowns can match Al Ahli in Intercontinental clash

Mamelodi Sundowns forward Brayan Leon has urged the African champions to embrace the occasion when they face Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli in the Fifa Intercontinental clash at Loftus on Saturday.

Sundowns are preparing for the match in front of what is expected to be a packed stadium, with Colombian attacker Leon among the key players for coach Miguel Cardoso.

Leon scored five goals as Sundowns won the Champions League last season, finishing the campaign with 18 goals in 35 appearances. He has found the net three times in nine outings so far this season and has also provided one assist.

Despite the significance of the fixture, Leon said the players should not place unnecessary pressure on themselves before kick-off.

“Personally, I am feeling very relaxed about it. No pressure whatsoever,” he said in an interview published on Fifa’s website.

“That’s how you need to approach these types of games. We don’t need to put ourselves under any pressure. That feeling will come when we are a day away, or when we are on our way to the stadium.

“That’s the kind of pressure you want, that sparks and fires you up. When it’s a final, that’s how you have to approach it. As far as I am concerned, every game should be played with that same spark.

“You should feel pressure, but only in the run-up to the game. Without it, it’s very difficult to perform to the best of your ability.”

Leon also believes Sundowns must make full use of playing at home, with the support of their fans offering an important advantage against Al Ahli.

“Having the home advantage can only be a positive thing because that really spurs you on,” he said.

“For me, it doesn’t matter what game it is or who you are up against, when your fans are cheering you on, that’s worth more than anything. You have to give the fans credit for that as well. They are always cheering us on and making sure we know we’re not alone.”

Al Ahli will arrive in Pretoria with a squad that includes experienced internationals such as Edouard Mendy, Merih Demiral, Francisco Trincao and Ivan Toney.

“We know the calibre of players they have at their disposal, the strength in depth of their squad and the level and potential they possess,” Leon said.

“They are Asian champions and we are African champions. They will also be thinking about us as well.”

Leon was signed by Cardoso, who guided Sundowns to their second Champions League title last season. The coach has reached three Champions League finals, finishing as runner-up twice before winning the competition on his third appearance.

“The coach knows the African game like the back of his hand,” Leon said. “Give credit where it’s due for the work he has done. He is one of the best coaches on the continent. He knows the game inside out and knows what it takes to be successful.”

Victory would put Sundowns through to the next round, where they could face Mexican side Toluca or the South American winners of the Copa Libertadores. Leon said reaching that stage would be special.