RB Leipzig captain Willi Orban praises Mamelodi Sundowns after impressive friendly win

RB Leipzig captain Willi Orban praised Mamelodi Sundowns after the African champions came from behind to beat the Bundesliga side 3-1 in an entertaining friendly at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Friday evening.

The Tshwane club produced an impressive second-half performance to overturn the scoreline and claim a notable victory in front of a passionate home crowd.

Orban said Leipzig had enjoyed their visit to South Africa and highlighted the quality shown by Mamelodi Sundowns during the match.

“Overall, I think we had a great time here in South Africa thanks for having us, it was a great experience to play in front of this crowd, unbelievable atmosphere thank you so much for your support all the best for the future, thank you so much,” Orban told SABC Sport.

The Leipzig captain was particularly impressed by Sundowns’ ability to control possession and maintain their shape against the German club.

“Like the coach said, it was an unbelievable atmosphere. Tough game, good opponent, really good in possession, really good in positioning.

“I think congratulations to the win to the Sundowns and also to winning the Champions League, big quality team and I think also a team with a big future.”

Mamelodi Sundowns’ victory added to the club’s growing reputation following their success in the Champions League. Their performance also provided a strong test for Leipzig, who were unable to hold on after taking the lead.

The match was played in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd at Lucas Moripe Stadium, with the atmosphere making a strong impression on Leipzig coach Ole Werner.

Werner acknowledged that the experience was different from what his players would normally encounter in Germany, but said the team appreciated the welcome they received.

“It’s quite different, but as the captain said tremendous crowd we liked to play, liked to be in the country all the best for the guys,” Werner said.

The Leipzig manager also used the fixture to give valuable experience to a number of younger players. Several members of the club’s under-19 squad appeared during the match, offering them the chance to compete in a demanding environment against a strong opponent.

“I think it’s just a big experience, especially for the young guys, we had a lot of guys from the under-19 team today on the pitch.

“So, I think it’s important for their development to play in front of that crowd. So, it’s just a big learning,” he said.

For Sundowns, the 3-1 comeback represented another memorable occasion in front of their supporters. For Leipzig, the fixture formed part of a South African visit that provided both a competitive challenge and an important development opportunity for their younger players.