Mamelodi Sundowns defender Keanu Cupido anticipates tough test in Champions League final return clash

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Keanu Cupido has admitted the South African champions face a far more difficult challenge in the return leg of the CAF Champions League final against FAR Rabat in Morocco this weekend.

Despite securing a narrow 1-0 victory in the first leg at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Cupido believes Sundowns missed a big opportunity to put the tie beyond reach after failing to convert several clear-cut chances.

A superb first-half free-kick from Aubrey Modiba proved to be the difference on the night, but the Brazilians could have easily extended their advantage, with striker Brayan Leon among the players who squandered opportunities in front of goal.

Reflecting on the performance after the final whistle, Cupido admitted Sundowns made life harder for themselves by not capitalising on their dominance.

“It wasn’t that tough. I think we made it difficult for ourselves basically. We had good opportunities to kill the game off, but at the end of the day we still won with the 1-0 victory and keeping a clean sheet was the most important thing for us,” he said.

The defender acknowledged the difficult atmosphere awaiting Sundowns in North Africa, with ASFAR expected to enjoy massive support at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in what is anticipated to be a sold-out encounter.

“We know they are a very good team. When their supporters are behind them, when it’s a sold-out affair on that side, we know it’s going to be tough for us,” Cupido stated.

“But if we stand together as a united team, it’s going to be easier. Still, we know it will be hard work for us.”

Cupido also pointed out ASFAR’s strengths from crosses and set-pieces, revealing that Sundowns had specifically prepared to deal with those threats in the first leg.

“They are really good from crosses and set-pieces as well, but as a team we knew their strengths and we worked on it in training,” he explained.

“Today we didn’t give them space or opportunities, but we know when we play away it will be a different game. We don’t expect what they did today to happen there as well. It will definitely be more difficult for us, but if we remain together it will be easier.”

Sundowns now head to Morocco carrying a slender advantage, knowing that a disciplined performance will be required to secure continental glory against a determined ASFAR side backed by a passionate home crowd.