Manqoba Mngqithi is hoping that Mamelodi Sundowns’ perfect start in Group B of the CAF Champions League will continue when the Brazilians host TP Mazembe from the Democratic Republic of Congo at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria on Tuesday (18h00).
The Tshwane giants have been impressive winning their first three matches – one at home and two away – and are on top of the Group B standings with nine points and a healthy seven-goal difference.
On the other hand, Mazembe have struggled so far drawing twice and losing once, scoring one goal and conceding two in three matches. This is unlike them as they always put up fierce competition whenever they play in the Champions League.
‘‘They’ve got some influential players. We know what to expect from them. We don’t take this game for granted. They know they have to get a result from us to stay in the hunt in the group. We are playing against a formidable team. Hopefully, after this match we will be guaranteed a place in the quarter-finals,’’ Manqoba, who is a co-coach at the Brazilians, said.
“On the run, it’s our wish to keep playing well and keep wining matches. There is a lot of cohesion, lot of team work and lot of dedication. I’m working with top coaches. It’s easier when you’ve got so many brains focusing on one thing.”
Normally, the Ravens play on an astro-turf at their home ground Stade TP Mazembe in Lubumbashi in the DRC. Despite that, Mngqithi does not think the Congolese are going to struggle when it comes to adapting to playing on grass.
“It’s easier to play in a normal pitch than in an astro-turf. It’s a little bit easier to adapt from astro-turf to grass. They are not familiar with playing games at night. They play their games during the day,” Mngqithi said.
The Brazilians are yet to lose in more than 20 games and Mngqithi has attributed that to team work between the coaching, medical and conditioning staff.
“In my coaching history one thing I have always managed was not to lose easily. When Sundowns have got the material we have and able to play many matches without loss, analysis, medical and conditioning team work very hard. We are never really focusing on records. We focus on matches as they come. We give each match all the analysis it deserves,” the former Lamontville Golden Arrows and Chippa United coach said.
After this match, the Brazilians are going to be left with two games – against Sudanese side Al Hilal away and CR Belouizdad from Morocco at home.
