Sundowns eager to be third time lucky in Africa

MAMELODI Sundowns have mastered the art of reaching the final hurdle of the CAF Champions League, but they know that, in order to overcome that stumbling block, they need consistency from start to finish.

- MIHLALI BALEKA

Sundowns reached the continental showpiece semifinal two seasons ago and improved on that last term by reaching the final. That's why they are eager to be third-time lucky this season.

But that's easier said than done. Sundowns can't get carried away and think about conquering the continent at this early stage. They need to lay the perfect foundation, where they can build a solid continental campaign, starting in the group stage.

The Brazilians will host St. Eloi Lupopo - who eliminated domestic rivals Orlando Pirates in the final round of the preliminary qualifiers - in their group stage opening match at Loftus Versfeld this afternoon (3pm kickoff).

On paper, despite Lupopo's on-andoff-the-field theatrics, Sundowns are favorites to win the match, given their pedigree and the fact that Lupopo are only making their debut at this stage of the competition.

Marcelo Allende, the Brazilians' little magician who was part of the last two heartbreaks, has reiterated what they need to do on the continent to avoid repeating past mistakes.