Onyango reveals how Sundowns can break the CAF hoodoo

Mamelodi Sundowns veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango believes “football brains” and tactical discipline will be the deciding factors as Masandawana continue their pursuit of a second star.

The Brazilians host Sudanese giants Al-Hilal at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Friday night (20:00), with both sides currently tied on four points at the top of their group in the CAF Champions League.

After the heartbreak of losing last season’s final to Pyramids FC, the 2016 champion insists the squad has identified exactly what is missing from their trophy cabinet.

Sundowns have often struggled against the robust, physical approach of North and East African opponents. However, Onyango—one of the few remaining members of the 2016 title-winning squad—insists that matching muscle with muscle is a losing battle.

“We all know that football is a physical game, but you cannot only go physical, otherwise the game is going to be difficult for us,” Onyango told the media.

“I believe we have both physicality and brains at Sundowns. We need to see where and when to play, how to control the game, and when to attack.”

The Mentality Shift For Sundowns

The Ugandan legendary shot-stopper emphasized that the “fighting spirit” remains high despite a large influx of younger players in the Chloorkop ranks. For Onyango, the mission is simple: change the history of the badge.

“The task ahead is very difficult, but we will keep on fighting. The mentality must always be to keep on winning. For me, the message is always to fight for the badge and change the way it looks right now.”

Sundowns currently lead the group on goal difference, making Friday’s clash a “six-pointer” for top spot. With Al-Hilal proving to be a stubborn opponent in recent years, Onyango’s call for technical execution over raw power will be the ultimate test for Manqoba Mngqithi’s men.