Mamelodi Sundowns delivered a dominant performance in their CAF Champions League campaign opener, securing a resounding 5-1 victory against Nigeria's Remo Stars. The first leg of the second preliminary round, held at the M.K.O Abiola International Stadium, saw Sundowns establish a commanding lead.
Early Pressure and Matthews' Brilliance
Sundowns started strong, with Nuno Santos nearly breaking the deadlock within the first ten minutes. A well-placed pass from Peter Shalulile led to a shot on target, but the Remo Stars goalkeeper made a crucial save. Tashreeq Matthews followed up with a rebound that narrowly missed the net.
Matthews, however, wouldn't be denied. In the 12th minute, he unleashed a powerful shot from distance, beating the keeper and giving Sundowns an early advantage.
Physical Battle and Tactical Changes
The match lived up to its billing as a physical contest, with numerous breaks in play. An early injury forced Malibongwe Khoza off the field, with Grant Kekana replacing him before the 20-minute mark.
Remo Stars showed signs of life after the water break, threatening the Sundowns defence. However, the visitors remained alert, denying Remo an equaliser. Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams made a crucial intervention, coming off his line to snatch the ball and thwart another attack.
Sundowns Extend Their Lead
A precise delivery from Marcelo Allende following a set-piece was met by Miguel Reisinho's glancing header, but the keeper made another save. Late in the first half, Williams gave the ball away outside the box, but Remo Stars' long-range attempt missed the target.
Shalulile extended Sundowns' lead before halftime, finding himself in a one-on-one situation with the defence. He calmly slotted the ball home, giving his side a two-goal cushion.
Remo Stars Coach Remains Optimistic
Despite the heavy defeat, Remo Stars assistant coach Tiago Conde remains optimistic about his team's chances in the return leg. He acknowledged the difference in resources and experience between the two clubs, stating, "You cannot compare the story of Mamelodi Sundowns in this competition with that of Remo Stars."
He added, "The difference of four goals is difficult, we know, but it’s not impossible." Conde emphasized the importance of correcting individual and collective mistakes to achieve a different result in the second leg.
Can Sundowns Maintain Their Dominance?
Sundowns will be looking to maintain their dominance in the second leg and secure their place in the next round of the CAF Champions League. Remo Stars, on the other hand, face an uphill battle to overturn the four-goal deficit. The return leg promises to be a fascinating encounter.