Downs shatter Nigerian curse with stunning Champions League win

IN a landmark moment for South African football, Mamelodi Sundowns finally conquered the Nigerian hoodoo by claiming a decisive 5-1 victory against Remo Stars in the first leg of the CAF Champions League second preliminary round.

- HERMAN GIBBS

The match, played at the MKO Abiola International Stadium in Ogun State on Sunday, saw Sundowns rewrite the history books, overcoming a longstanding jinx of South African clubs failing to secure a win on Nigerian soil in previous Champions League encounters.

For years, the prospect of facing Nigerian teams proved daunting for Sundowns. Their previous encounters had ended in disappointment, as they suffered defeats to formidable opponents like Lobi Stars and Enyimba.

However, the class and maturity displayed by Sundowns in Sunday’s match indicate a significant shift in the team’s fortunes and mentality when competing away from home.

At the start, the Betway Premiership champions fielded a new attacking trio, integrating new signings Miguel Reisinho and Nuno Santos with prolific striker Peter Shalulile for their first match together.