Mamelodi Sundowns secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory, with Modiba scoring the decisive goal from a free-kick in the first half. The team’s defence held strong to protect a crucial clean sheet.
Khuliso Cupido’s return to the lineup was a significant boost, following injury concerns earlier this month after their league clash against Kaizer Chiefs. He partnered Khulumani Ndamane at the back, helping to nullify the opposition’s threats.
## Sundowns Celebrate Clean Sheet
Cupido acknowledged that Sundowns could have ended the match earlier, having created several scoring opportunities. “It wasn’t that tough, I think we made it difficult for ourselves,” he said. “We had good chances to kill the game off, but at the end of the day, we still won with a 1-0 victory, and keeping a clean sheet was the most important thing for us.”
The defender also looked ahead to the second leg against AS FAR in Morocco, expecting a much tougher challenge with the home team backed by their supporters. “We know they are a very good team, and when their supporters are behind them, it’s going to be tough for us,” he said. “But if we stand together as a united team, it’s going to be easier.”
## Rabat Awaits: Sundowns Prepare for Tough Test
Cupido revealed that Sundowns had prepared specifically to counter AS FAR’s aerial strength, which they felt worked well in the first leg. “They are really good from crosses and set-pieces, but we knew their strengths and worked on it in training,” he said. “Today, we didn’t give them space for opportunity, but we know when we play away, it will be a different game.”
The second leg will take place in Rabat, where Sundowns will aim to protect their narrow advantage and push for another continental title.
