Morena calls on Sundowns experience to secure Champions League group-stage place

Mamelodi Sundowns will rely on the experience of Thapelo Morena as they attempt to reach the CAF Champions League group stages for a 12th consecutive year.

The South African side face Wiliete Sport de Benguela in the second leg on Friday, with coach Miguel Cardoso expected to draw on Morena’s knowledge as Sundowns seek to negotiate a crucial hurdle against the Angolan club.

Morena is one of the most respected figures in the Sundowns dressing room. The veteran defender has established that standing during his long service at Chloorkop and believes the squad must now turn its experience into action.

The 33-year-old has played a significant role in the club’s recent Champions League campaigns and says the players have moved beyond discussing how they might handle the pressure of the tie.

“We have passed the stage where we will speak about knowing how to deal with the moments and now in the stage of giving everything to the team. We have already passed the stage of we might have or could have. So, we know what it is that we need to do here at home and the possibility of doing it is very clear and we know that we will put our level best on Friday,” Morena said.

Morena vows to give everything for Sundowns

Morena also spoke of his appreciation for Sundowns and said he remained ready to repay the club for the faith it had placed in him.

The defender stressed the importance of Friday’s match, with qualification for the group stages at stake and Sundowns aiming to continue their established presence in the competition.

“I’m always willing to give for this badge because whatever this badge has done for me is something big and great. For the game on Friday, we will sweat blood. No matter what we will go through. This game is the most important for the team to be in the group stages having been there for the past 10 [11] years,” the 33-year-old concluded.

Morena’s message has given Sundowns’ preparations a lift before the decisive encounter, as the club looks to maintain its run of appearances in the CAF Champions League group stages.

For Cardoso, Morena’s leadership and understanding of the tournament provide important support as Sundowns prepare for the second leg against Wiliete Sport de Benguela.