Mamelodi Sundowns Star Marcelo Allende Reacts After Crucial CAF Champions League First-Leg Win Over AS FAR Rabat
Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Marcelo Allende has shared his reaction after his team secured a vital first-leg victory in the CAF Champions League semi-final tie against AS FAR Rabat at Loftus Versfeld Stadium. The match took place on Sunday evening in front of a focused home crowd in Pretoria. Sundowns claimed a narrow 1-0 win that gives them a valuable advantage heading into the return leg in Morocco. The result keeps their hopes alive in the ongoing CAF Champions League campaign as they continue to chase continental success. The performance also reflected a controlled and disciplined approach from the home side in a high pressure knockout setting. Every moment of the match carried weight because both teams understood what was at stake.
The victory gives Sundowns an important edge, but the tie remains finely balanced ahead of the second leg. A single goal separates the sides, which means AS FAR Rabat still has a strong chance when they return home. Sundowns have been building toward another deep run in this competition after winning the title in 2016. They also came close in recent seasons, including a final appearance that ended in disappointment against Pyramids FC. This current squad has shown consistency across multiple competitions, but the Champions League remains the biggest target. The 1-0 result, combined with a clean sheet, was seen as a key foundation for the next match in Morocco.
Allende, who has been one of the standout performers in Miguel Cardoso’s squad this season, stressed the importance of control and discipline in matches of this magnitude. He highlighted the value of not conceding at home and explained how that gives the team confidence going into the second leg. He also pointed to the demanding schedule Sundowns face across domestic and continental competitions. According to him, the squad understands the pressure that comes with representing a club with high expectations every season. He said the team must focus on recovery, preparation and collective improvement during the week leading up to the return fixture. His message reflected a calm but determined mindset within the squad.
Sundowns have been competing in several competitions this season, which has tested squad depth and consistency. Despite their strong performances, they are still chasing silverware in the current campaign, with league and cup ambitions still active. The intensity of fixtures has forced the team to manage fitness carefully while maintaining competitive standards. Allende noted that playing for Sundowns requires mental strength because every match carries expectation and pressure. He emphasized that the squad embraces that challenge and continues to push forward with belief. That mentality will be essential as they prepare for a difficult away match in Morocco.
The narrow win sets up a decisive second leg that will determine who advances further in the CAF Champions League. Sundowns will travel knowing that their defensive discipline at home could prove decisive in the overall outcome. AS FAR Rabat will look to use home advantage to overturn the deficit and apply early pressure. For Sundowns, maintaining focus and composure will be critical in a hostile environment. Allende’s reaction highlights a team aware of the challenge ahead while confident in its structure and ambition. The outcome of the tie will play a major role in shaping their continental campaign and their pursuit of another historic title.
