Thapelo Morena has delivered a strong message to his Mamelodi Sundowns teammates as the defending CAF Champions League winners prepare for a decisive second-leg encounter against Angola’s Wiliete SC.

The Brazilians are fighting to extend their impressive record of reaching the Champions League group stages for another season. However, their mission has become more complicated after they were held to a goalless draw in the first leg, leaving everything to be decided at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

Morena, one of the experienced figures in the Sundowns dressing room, believes the squad must now move beyond discussions about what went wrong in Angola and concentrate on delivering the performance required to progress.

“We have passed the stage where we will speak about knowing how to deal with the moments and now in the stage of giving everything to the team,” Morena said.

The versatile player also made it clear that the team understands the importance of the upcoming fixture. Sundowns have enjoyed sustained success in African football, but their reputation alone will not guarantee qualification against a determined Wiliete side.

Morena emphasised his personal commitment to the club, explaining that he is prepared to give everything to help the team achieve its objective.

“I'm always willing to give for this badge because whatever this badge has done for me is something big and great. For the game on Friday, we will sweat blood. No matter what we will go through,” he said.

Head coach Miguel Cardoso has also described the encounter as a cup final, underlining the need for a stronger attacking display. Sundowns must win to guarantee progression, while another goalless draw would take the tie to a penalty shootout. A draw with goals would eliminate the South African side under the applicable competition rules.

For Sundowns, the stakes are significant. An early exit would disrupt their title defence, while victory would keep their hopes of retaining the continental crown alive.

Morena’s message reflects the determination within the dressing room as the Tshwane giants prepare for a match that demands focus, discipline and a decisive performance.

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