Mamelodi Sundowns captain Themba Zwane says Sunday’s CAF Super Cup final against USM Alger is a major occasion for the club, describing it as being on the level of a CAF Champions League final.
The Brazilians will be looking to salvage continental silverware after failing to reach the CAF Champions League group stages this season, despite entering the competition as defending champions. Sunday’s encounter therefore presents their only remaining opportunity to win continental silverware this season.
Standing in their way are USM Alger, who booked their place in the final after winning the CAF Confederation Cup.
Also Read: CAF Confirms AFCON Editions for 2028, 2031 and 2033
Zwane, who was part of the Sundowns team that won the Super Cup in 2016 alongside Dennis Onyango and Thapelo Morena, says the importance of the trophy is something they regularly remind their teammates about.
It’s me, Dennis and Thapelo from that squad of 2016 that won the Super Cup. In the changing room, we always remind the guys how important it is to win this trophy. It’s part of the achievements we want as a team,” said Zwane.
The midfielder believes the occasion demands proper preparation and full concentration from Sundowns.
Honestly, it’s very big for us. It’s like a Champions League final. That’s why we’re preparing very well, staying focused and getting ready for the game,” he said.
Also Read: COSAFA appoints Victor Gomes as chair of Referees Committee
Zwane is also expecting a difficult test from the Algerian side, whom he describes as an attacking team that will not simply sit back and defend.
We analyse them very well. We know their strong points. They are a team that will not sit back; they will try to press you. They move the ball and use their speed,” he explained.
The Sundowns captain has also called on the club’s supporters to fill Loftus Versfeld and give the team the backing they need.
I will ask our supporters to come in numbers, as always. We always feel good whenever we see them in the stadium. They give us that extra motivation all the time, so I urge them to buy tickets and come to the stadium,” he added.
Sundowns will be hoping to make home advantage count as they look to reclaim the continental spotlight with another CAF Super Cup triumph.