ASFAR coach sends warning to Sundowns ahead of second leg
AS FAR as head coach Alexandre Santos insists the CAF Champions League final is far from over despite his side’s first-leg defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns.
The Moroccan giants suffered a narrow 1-0 loss to Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Aubrey Modiba scored the only goal of the match in spectacular fashion with a stunning free-kick in the 37th minute. The goals handed Masandawana a slim advantage heading into next weekend’s decisive second leg in Morocco.
However, Modiba’s afternoon ended on a worrying note after he appeared to suffer a hamstring injury later in the match.
Sundowns dominated large parts of the encounter and created several clear-cut opportunities but failed to put the tie beyond reach.
Striker Brayan León was guilty of missing multiple one-on-one chances that could have given the hosts a far bigger cushion.
Despite the defeat, Santos remains confident his side can still overturn the result and lift the trophy.
“We expected more opportunities to score, but we’re in the first half, and the second half will be next weekend,” said Santos.
“We have to do more. For sure, we will do more because we can.”
The Portuguese mentor admitted Sundowns are one of the strongest teams on the continent, but believes ASFAR are capable of producing a comeback at home.
“It was not easy because Sundowns is a very big team. A very strong team,” he added.
“Every member of our team knows we have a very good chance to face Sundowns next week and to do what we want.
“It’s to score, reverse the result, and get the title.” The second leg will be at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Sunday.
