Mamelodi Sundowns will launch their latest CAF Champions League campaign
this Saturday afternoon at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, facing Congolese side
Saint-Éloi Lupopo.
The match marks the start of Sundowns’ journey to reclaim the continental
title, a mission fueled by their defeat to Pyramids FC in last season’s
final. The Brazilians enter the group stage in strong form, having
comfortably dispatched Nigerian champions Remo Stars 7-1 on aggregate in the
previous round and securing a victory over TS Galaxy that cemented their top
spot in the Betway Premiership before the international break.
Their opponents, Saint-Éloi Lupopo, are familiar foes for South African
fans, having recently eliminated Orlando Pirates in a penalty shoot-out. The
Congolese side, however, will be without defender Dieumerci Mukoko, who is
serving a two-match suspension for misconduct during the tie against
Pirates.
Confirmed Lineups:
Mamelodi Sundowns: Williams, Mudau, Cupido, Reisinho, Modiba, Kekana,
Mokoena, Santos, Allende, Rayners, Matthews.
Subs: Pieterse, Adams, Lebusa, Sales, Mkhulise, Morena, Johannes, Maseko,
Ntsabeleng.
Saint-Éloi Lupopo: Medjo, Wala, Mendy, Katumbwe, Mbele, Twite, Miche,
Kambou, Lihozasia, Djos, Wanet.
