The highly anticipated clash will take place at Loftus Stadium, where Sundowns have built an impressive record against Moroccan opposition in recent years. The game starts at 4 pm.

The Brazilians are unbeaten in their last eight home Champions League matches against Moroccan clubs, recording four wins and four draws.

Sundowns have also reached the CAF Champions League final for the fourth time in the club’s history — more than any other PSL side.

They previously lost to Al Ahly SC in 2001, defeated Zamalek SC to lift the title in 2016, and fell short against Pyramids FC in last season’s final.

Cardoso, however, insists history and statistics will count for little unless his players deliver on the pitch.

“Obviously, a complete match will allow us to take advantage of the situation,” said Cardoso. “Are we capable of doing it? Of course, we are capable of doing it.”

The Portuguese mentor believes Sundowns must combine tactical discipline, energy, and emotional control to succeed before next weekend’s return leg in Morocco.

“Are we committed and ready to put in the proper energy to do it? Of course we are,” he added.

“Do we need the help of our supporters to cheer us on and bring the energy that will help us manage the emotions throughout the match and achieve the result? Of course, we need that.”

Sundowns head into the final with strong home form in the competition.

They are unbeaten at home in the Champions League over the past two seasons, winning six and drawing five of their 11 matches.

Even more impressively, they have won their last three home matches in the tournament without conceding a goal.

Cardoso’s side has also become known for its possession-based football.

Sundowns have scored six goals this season from build-up sequences involving 10 or more passes — three times more than every other team combined in the competition.

Meanwhile, striker Brayan León has emerged as Sundowns’ main attacking weapon.

The Colombian has scored five of Sundowns’ last seven Champions League goals and found the net in each of his last four starts in the competition.

“And that is exactly where we need to be,” Cardoso continued.

“Understanding the quality of the opposition, but also recognising the strength we have within our own team.

“That is what we need to push ourselves to the limit, minimise what the opponent can do, and approach this match in the correct way.”

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