CAFCL: Lupopo will give Sundowns respect, but not fear them – Salmi

Democratic Republic of the Congo outfit Saint-Eloi Lupopo have revealed their mission heading into the first group stage match of the CAF Champions League against Mamelodi Sundowns in South Africa.

The Linafoot Ligue 1 champions, fresh from their giant-killing antics that bundled the fancied Orlando Pirates out of the continental league, will face Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday.

Lupopo have worked hard to be here

Speaking ahead of the clash, Lupopo assistant coach Yassine Salmi told CAFOnline.com: “They are one of the biggest teams in Africa. They have earned this title by lifting the title and reaching the final last season. We have to give them the respect but not fear them.

“This is a competitive tournament and every team that is here is equally competitive. We have worked hard to be here and will give it our best against Sundowns and all other teams.”

In an earlier interview, Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso admitted they anticipate a tough game from the DR Congo side.

“First match of the Group Stage, obviously every match will have a story, but we have to write the right one on this one,” said Cardoso.

“First home match, a good start is important, so we will work hard and we’ve been working very hard since we finished the last match towards arriving on the best conditions, on the best moment possible.”

He concluded: “We want to make a good start. A good start is on the whistle of the referee and the players that are available and that can start that match will be, for sure, very, very strong and very powerful on going and pursuing the result we want to get.”