Thapelo Morena backs Mamelodi Sundowns to retain CAF Champions League title

Mamelodi Sundowns winger Thapelo Morena says the reigning African champions are prepared to handle the pressure of defending their CAF Champions League crown and believe they can win the competition for a second successive season.

Sundowns claimed the continental trophy last season and are now aiming to become back-to-back champions. Morena said the squad understood the responsibility that came with their status and was confident it could deliver another successful campaign.

“As a team, it’s something we take up responsibility. We believe in it, we can [win it back-to-back], we are willing to do it,” Morena said.

The 33-year-old pointed to Sundowns’ experience in the PSL, where they have had to manage heightened expectations after winning domestic honours.

“We have done it at home in the PSL, we have experience of, after winning, what’s happening next,” he added.

Morena accepts that Sundowns will face a particularly strong challenge from opponents who are determined to prevent them from retaining the trophy.

The versatile attacker expects rival teams to raise their level when facing the defending champions, but believes Sundowns’ mindset and performances at home can prove decisive in their pursuit of another historic continental campaign.

“We know teams will come all out against us, never mind who is there,” he said.

“When they come to our home, playing in our soil, you know the difference. We give everything and that’s the most important to do on the pitch.”

Morena’s comments come as Sundowns prepare to face the demands of another CAF Champions League campaign after lifting the prestigious trophy last season. Their task will be to respond to the attention that comes with being champions while maintaining the standards that secured their previous success.

The forward’s confidence is based on the belief that Sundowns can embrace, rather than avoid, the pressure of defending their title. He also stressed the importance of applying that commitment in matches played on home soil, where he says the team’s approach can provide an advantage.

Opponents will be focused on dethroning Sundowns, but Morena insists the South African side are ready for that challenge and remain willing to pursue consecutive continental triumphs.