Sundowns keen on returning to winning ways after shocking defeat to Magesi

Mamelodi Sundowns will seek to recover from their weekend heartbreak when they take on AS Maniema Union in the CAF Champions League group stage at Loftus Versfeld on Tuesday, November 26.

The pressure is mounting on head coach Manqoba Mngqithi after the Brazilians suffered a stunning 2-1 loss to Betway Premiership newcomers Magesi FC in the Carling Knockout final on Saturday.

This marked the third final loss for Sundowns in just two seasons, following defeats to Orlando Pirates in the 2023 MTN8 and the 2024 Nedbank Cup.

Before Saturday’s setback, Sundowns were enjoying a strong run, winning four consecutive games across all competitions. However, their momentum was first disrupted by Polokwane City, who handed the reigning champions a surprise 1-0 league defeat on October 27.

Sundowns secured their place in the CAF Champions League group stage with a commanding 8-0 aggregate victory over Mbabane Swallows in the preliminary second round. The Loftus Versfeld clash offers the perfect opportunity for the Brazilians to regain confidence and assert their dominance on the continental stage.

Sundowns’ opponents, AS Maniema Union, are riding high in the DR Congolese Ligue 1. They remain unbeaten in their first seven games this season, establishing a four-point lead at the summit with two matches in hand over second-placed Dauphins Noirs.

Guy Lusadisu’s team comes into this fixture on the back of a narrow 1-0 win over Celeste on November 20, marking their fourth consecutive league victory. Maniema Union’s journey to the CAF Champions League proper has been nothing short of remarkable. They edged Ngezi Platinum on penalties in the preliminary first round and eliminated Petro de Luanda 2-1 on aggregate in the second round.

With the stakes high for both teams, the stage is set for an intriguing encounter at Loftus Versfeld.

Sundowns will hope their continental experience gives them the edge, while Maniema Union will look to prove they belong among Africa’s elite.

Kick-off is scheduled for 6 PM CAT (SA, GMT+2).