Lebusa reveals Sundowns’ plan to neutralise Fiston Mayele in CAFCL final

As they continue preparing for the CAF Champions League final clash against Egyptian side Pyramids FC, Mamelodi Sundowns defender Mosa Lebusa has revealed the team’s tactical approach to neutralising prolific striker Fiston Mayele.

Sundowns defender Lebusa was speaking at Chloorkop, the club’s training base, during a media open day on Wednesday morning as they look to devise a plan to stop Mayele.

The Tshwane giants will take on Pyramids FC at home in the Champions League final, with the first leg kicking off on Saturday at Loftus Versfeld Stadium. The decisive return leg is scheduled for June 1 in Cairo, where the two teams will battle for the coveted continental trophy at the June 30 Stadium.

Masandawana secured their spot in the final on the away goals rule, following a 1-1 aggregate draw against Egyptian giants Al Ahly in the semi-finals.

Pyramids, on the other hand, booked their place by overcoming Orlando Pirates with a 3-2 aggregate victory. Notably, Pyramids’ standout striker, Fiston Mayele, was instrumental in their win against Pirates as the DR Congo hitman bagged a crucial brace in the second leg.

Sundowns centre-back, Lebusa, stated that their plan is to keep Mayele away from the penalty box, where he poses the greatest threat.

The 30-year-old striker has been highly influential for the Egyptian Premier League outfit, netting 16 goals and providing two assists across all competitions.

“Mayele is a very good player, but we don’t focus on one player; we focus on the team as a whole,” said Lebusa. “So, for us, we just want to keep Pyramids as far away as possible from our penalty box and ensure we minimise their scoring chances.

“We know that in and around the box, Mayele is deadly, and that’s one thing we are looking at. Hopefully, we will succeed and make sure that we get an advantage.”