CAF Champions League: Miguel Cardoso unfazed by Rabat atmosphere ahead of Sundowns final second leg clash against AS FAR

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso insists his side will not be intimidated by the hostile atmosphere expected in Rabat when they face Morocco’s AS FAR in the second leg of the CAF Champions League final on Sunday.

The South African champions head into the decisive clash holding a narrow 1-0 advantage from last week’s first leg in Pretoria, with their Moroccan opponents hoping home support will inspire a comeback.

However, Cardoso believes matches of this magnitude are exactly what players and coaches prepare for throughout their careers.

“I think that we all work all our careers to play matches like this,” Cardoso said. “What is difficult is when you go to play somewhere in the middle of nowhere and there’s no supporters. We prepare ourselves for these moments with the big crowd.”

Royal Armed Forces are expected to enjoy strong backing at home, but the Portuguese tactician stressed that the outcome will depend on how both teams perform on the pitch rather than the atmosphere in the stands.

Cardoso said his side must be prepared to navigate different phases of the contest, particularly when defending and when in possession.

“This game, as any other game, will have four different moments that the team has to handle in the right way,” he explained.

“There will be moments that we have to play without a ball, which is that we have to defend, in order to win back the ball.

“Sometimes those can be the most aggressive moments of your game if you are really committed and strong.

“And there will be moments that we will have the ball. And it’s important also to play those moments in a way that is aligned with our identity.”

Sundowns will be aiming to protect their slender lead and secure continental glory when the two sides meet in Rabat, with kick-off scheduled for 14:00 GMT.