Sundowns look to regain their spark in CAF Champions League

MAMELODI Sundowns have endured a turbulent start to their season and now return to the CAF Champions League stage aiming to find their rhythm and begin their continental campaign on a positive note.

- OBAKENG MELETSE

The Brazilians will face Nigerian outfit Remo Stars in the second preliminary round at the Abiola Stadium this Sunday, seeking to lay down an early marker in Africa's premier club competition.

Their return follows a heartbreaking 3-2 aggregate defeat in last season's final against Egyptian side Pyramids FC, where Sundowns were widely tipped to lift their second Champions League title. Instead, they were left to rue missed opportunities against the debut finalists, ending what had been a strong campaign in disappointment.

For head coach Miguel Cardoso, this tournament presents a chance for redemption. The Portuguese tactician has suffered back-to-back continental final heartbreaks — first with Esperance de Tunis in the 2023/24 campaign and then with Sundowns last season.

Now, he will be hoping that it’s third time lucky as he looks to guide his team back to the summit of African football.