Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has warned his troops against complacency after their hard-fought 1-0 victory over Al Ahly in the African Football League (AFL).
Thapelo Maseko scored the all-important goal on Sunday afternoon in what was the first leg of the AFL semi-final at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
However, Mokwena is adamant that the job is not done yet, saying that Mamelodi Sundowns need to approach the second leg with the same focus and determination as they did the first.
The return leg of the semis clash will be hosted by the Egyptian giants, Al Ahly, in Cairo on Wednesday.
RULANI MOKWENA SAYS IT’S ONLY HALF-TIME
It’s half-time, the massage remains the same,” said Mokwena after the Al Ahly game. “We would have said it’s half-time at 0-0, and we would have said it’s half-time regardless of what the scoreline is.
“The first thing that they’ve got to think about is Sundowns mustn’t score an away goal. So let’s see what happens.
“We’re half-time, and it’s going to be an interesting game, but as I said, I think they also know that Sundowns have got a goal in Cairo if not two.”
“But we’ve got a goal in Cairo, we know that, and they know that also. I think that also stresses them a lot. The message that they’ve got is they know Sundowns can score in Cairo,” added Mokwena.
OTHER SOCCER NEWS:Stellenbosch FC’s danger remains even without ‘Ox’ Mthethwa, says Themba Zwane
The Sundowns coach also praised his players for their performance in the first leg, saying that they showed great character and resilience to beat Al Ahly.
“We are very proud of the players and the yellow nation for their support, having come out in numbers to push the team,” he added.
“They [fans] really pushed us in the second half. We are very grateful to the Masandawana family today for their support, and now we go again.”