Mamelodi Sundowns coach, Rulani Mokwena, downplayed the 0-0 against Wydad Casablanca in the Caf Champions League at Stade Mohamed V Stadium.
Sundowns controlled the early stages of the first half before they were reduced to ten-men after Neo Maema’s red card. In the 90th minute Marcelo Allende was also sent off.
“The return leg will not be easy,” said Mokwena. “This is the Caf Champions League and we are playing against the defending champions. We still have to play another 90 minutes. But I’m proud of the players’ gallant performance, incredible discipline, tactical flexibility and adaptation to very difficult circumstance.
“Before the red card, there were moments when we had 65 percent of ball possession. I thought we were excellent and that is why I give so much praise to the players.
“It’s only half time, so we must keep our feet firmly on the ground – we are still focusing on the second leg in Pretoria.
“The players are gaining more experience by playing these difficult matches, we trust them to continue to be at service and give the best that they can.
“They always do that – they are an honest group of players, so credit to them. A lot of credit to the technical team for the work in what is a difficult week. Congratulations to the whole club because results under circumstances feel emotionally like a victory.”
Sundowns are firm favourites to go through to the Final for the first time since 2016. But Mokwena has downplayed the favourite tag.
“You only had to watch the game last night (between Esperance and Al Ahly) – there are other clubs who have won the Caf Champions League more than us.
“There are clubs who have pressure to win the Champions League every single year because they have done it more. Wydad are the defending champions, in the last eight quarter-final, they have won seven times.
“We just have to give the best that we can – we enjoy the opportunity and we continue to work very hard and keep are feet on the ground.”
By Zola Doda