Morena vows Sundowns will ‘sweat blood’ to reach CAF Champions League group stage

Mamelodi Sundowns utility player Thapelo Morena says the defending champions are prepared to “sweat blood” to overcome Wiliete SC and keep their bid for back-to-back CAF Champions League titles alive.

Sundowns must win Friday’s second qualifying round return leg at Loftus Versfeld Stadium to reach the group stages after being held to a goalless draw in Angola last Sunday.

A 0-0 result in Pretoria would send the tie to a penalty shootout. Any score draw would see Wiliete progress to the group stages, with Sundowns eliminated.

“We are going to put everything into the pitch, we are going to sweat blood and no matter what, we are going to go through,” Morena said.

Sundowns have been widely regarded as strong contenders to retain their continental title, having impressed with their performances and quality this season. Morena said the squad also believes it can achieve that objective.

The South African champions have won the league title eight consecutive times, a record that Morena believes demonstrates their ability to handle the demands of defending trophies.

“As a team, it’s something we take as a responsibility and believe in [defending the title]. We can and we’re willing to do it because we have done it at home in the PSL,” he said.

Sundowns know Wiliete will be determined to cause another upset, but Morena believes their home advantage can make a significant difference.

“And now we have the experience after winning. We know that teams will also come all out against us, no matter who is there. But to be honest, when we come here at home on our soil, we know the difference. We’re going to give our everything. That’s the most important thing to do on the pitch.”

The Angolan side frustrated Sundowns in the opening match, and Morena acknowledged that the South African club did not perform as well as it could have.

However, he said Friday’s fixture represents an important opportunity for Sundowns to draw on their strong home record and secure a place in the next stage.

“I think this game is the most important one for the team to reach the group stages. We have been in the group stages for the past 10 years, and it’s one thing as a team we want to achieve.

“To be honest, we could’ve done better and things didn’t go well because of what happened. But the most important thing is the game we are looking forward to.”