Teboho Mokoena, Khuliso Mudau lead the charge as Mamelodi Sundowns eye CAF semis

Mamelodi Sundowns will aim to cement their place in the CAF Champions League semi-finals when they travel to Bamako on Sunday to face Stade Malien in the return leg of the quarter-finals.

The Brazilians carry a comfortable 3-0 lead from the first leg, but coach Miguel Cardoso insists nothing is guaranteed under the pressure of continental football.

Masandawana produced a disciplined and clinical display in Pretoria, overwhelming Stade Malien and scoring three crucial goals to put themselves in a commanding position. The first leg showcased Sundowns’ lethal attacking instincts and their ability to control possession while staying compact defensively. Despite the advantage, Cardoso is adamant his team will maintain focus.

“The 3-0 lead is important, but we cannot afford to be complacent. We need to approach the game with a positive mindset, especially in a hostile environment,” Cardoso explained. His message in the dressing room is clear: take it one match at a time.

In the 46 matches that Sundowns have played in home-and-away Champions League knockout ties after winning the first leg, they have managed at least one goal in all but five of them. That is important as CAF still uses away goals, and should Sundowns get one on Sunday, Stade Malien will need to score five times to win the tie.

Sundowns have regained their formidable form in recent weeks, dominating the Betway Premiership and demonstrating ruthlessness in the Champions League. Their attacking players have been clinical, converting chances with precision and maintaining the pressure on opponents.

Key performers such as Teboho Mokoena and Khuliso Mudau will be crucial in Mali. Mokoena, who came off the bench to score a brace in Sundowns’ 3-1 victory over Marumo Gallants, has shown he can make decisive contributions, while Mudau continues to enjoy his best form this season.

The return leg at Stade du 26 Mars presents a different challenge. Malian crowds are notoriously passionate, and the conditions in Bamako can be testing for visiting teams. Cardoso knows that a single lapse could quickly shift momentum in a continental tie.

His approach will be to ensure his players remain focused, disciplined, and composed, avoiding any unnecessary risks while exploiting the spaces Malien may leave.

“From my part, in this house, in my locker room with my players, my thoughts — the thoughts I want them to have — are on the next match,” said Cardoso. His mantra is simple: take one step at a time and avoid overconfidence.

As the quarter-final second leg approaches, Sundowns’ blend of experience and youth will be tested. Their ability to control the game under pressure, absorb intensity, and strike ruthlessly in attack will determine whether they progress to the semi-finals.

For now, the task is clear: respect the opponent, stay focused, and complete the job in Mali.