High Stakes: Lunga’s Fearless Take on Sundowns’ Champions League Final Redemption
Divine Lunga, a player for Mamelodi Sundowns, stresses the team’s determination to reclaim the CAF Champions League trophy for Chloorkop as they prepare for their second consecutive final in this prestigious tournament.
Last season, Sundowns reached the final but were left disappointed as they fell to Pyramids FC, the Egyptian heavyweights who celebrated their inaugural title victory.
This season, the Tshwane club has another opportunity to make history by facing Moroccan side AS FAR in the final, with the first leg set for Sunday at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
The Brazilians will look to exploit their home advantage to secure a strong position ahead of the return leg in Morocco next weekend.
Sundowns are aiming for their second CAF Champions League title, having famously won it in 2016 under former coach Pitso Mosimane. Only captain Denis Onyango and seasoned midfielder Themba Zwane remain from that victorious team.
Lunga acknowledged the players’ understanding of the significance of the occasion and their responsibility to fulfill the club’s long-standing search for continental success.
“I’m excited to be part of the CAF Champions League final again this season, and our goal is to bring the trophy back home,” expressed Lunga.
“It has been ten years since the team last held this trophy. We’ve reached the semifinals in previous years, and while last season saw us reach the final, we strive to achieve the same this season. We will give everything to bring the trophy back.”
The 30-year-old also reflected on Sundowns’ previous encounters with AS FAR, mentioning that both teams played to a pair of 1-1 draws, one at home and the other away, during the group stage of last season.
Nonetheless, Lunga feels the final will present a different challenge, despite both sides being well-acquainted with each other.
“What I can say is that the Champions League is a different environment,” he asserted.
“Yes, we met them last season and know their strengths and weaknesses. This competition can feel like a gamble.
“Therefore, we will strive to perform at our best, especially since we’re starting at home. We plan to score goals to establish an advantage for the away leg.”
