The CAF Champions League match between Mamelodi Sundowns and Esperance took place at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Pretoria, South Africa. Sundowns’ player Tiyani Mabunda recounted the challenges they faced on previous trips to Tunisia in an exclusive interview with the Sundowns Pitch-side Podcast on YouTube. He described the intense atmosphere at Esperance’s home ground, with the dark pitch, smoke, lasers, and firecrackers adding to the intensity. Despite these adversities, Sundowns aimed to secure a positive result in the semi-finals.
Mabunda reflected on the mental and physical obstacles faced by Sundowns in their quest for continental glory. He emphasized the advantage of playing at home for Esperance and the difficulties of playing in Tunisia. Thabo Nthethe, a former Sundowns star, mentioned that the lasers in their faces motivated the team and didn’t disturb them. The upcoming sold-out match at Stade Olympique Hammadi Agrebi was anticipated as an epic encounter between the two African powerhouses.
With memories of past encounters still fresh, Sundowns drew strength from their experiences as they prepared for the crucial journey. The stage was set for a captivating showdown, watched with bated breath by the continent.