By Michael Madyira
Mamelodi Sundowns face what could be their first real test in this season’s CAF Champions League when they come up against TP Mazembe in a Group A match at Stade du TP Mazembe on Saturday.
After easing 3-0 past group-stage debutants FC Nouadhibou last weekend, the Brazilians now have to deal with the five-time African champions.
TP Mazembe might have regressed from being that almost invincible side that used to send shivers to continental opponents in the past decade, but they remain a big threat to Masandawana.
They are no pushovers in Lubumbashi although Sundowns would draw inspiration from the fact that they won 2-1 there in March 2021 to break Mazembe’s 74-match unbeaten home record in African competitions.
“We have a match against TP Mazembe and we have prepared well,” Sundowns defender Brian Onyango told the club’s media department.
“As you know, every group has got champions. Our coach has given us instructions on how we should approach the game.
“I am certain we will execute according to his instructions how we should approach the game.”
Saturday’s Lubumbashi showdown is another test of Sundowns’ squad depth and quality.
Key players like defenders Aubrey Modiba, Abdel Boutouil, Mothobi Mvala and Rivaldo Coetzee are still battling fitness issues.
Attackers Thapelo Maseko and Junior Mendieta are also a doubt but the presence of Lucas Ribeiro Costa and Peter Shalulile could comfort coach Rhulani Mokwena.
While Sundowns are coming from a bright start to their Champions League group campaign, Mazembe are reeling from the 1-0 defeat by Pyramids away in Egypt last Friday.
That makes the Ravens a wounded side desperate to pick themselves up before their chances of reaching the knockouts start fading.
Pictured above: Mamelodi Sundowns winger Gaston Sirino and TP Mazembe attacker Philippe Kinzumbi
Image source: Mamelodi Sundowns
