Abeokuta, Nigeria – South African champions Mamelodi Sundowns outclassed Nigeria’s Remo Stars 5–1 in the CAF Champions League second preliminary round first-leg encounter on Sunday afternoon at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
The Brazilians, who finished as runners-up in last season’s competition, fielded a refreshed attacking line led by new signings Nuno Santos and Reisinho alongside Peter Shalulile. The trio wasted little time settling in as Tashreeq Matthews opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a powerful strike from the edge of the box.
Remo Stars attempted to push forward after conceding, but Sundowns’ defence held firm. Just before the halftime break, Shalulile doubled the advantage with a composed finish after breaking through the Nigerian backline.
Rowen Williams was called into action moments later, producing a superb save to deny Remo a lifeline before the interval.
The tempo remained with the hosts after the restart, and their dominance paid off when Khuliso Mudau set up Reisinho to score his first goal for the club from close range.
Coach Miguel Cardoso later introduced Kutlwano Letlhaku and Arthur Sales, with the latter adding a fourth in the 80th minute after connecting with a pass from Santos.
Remo Stars managed a consolation goal through Olasupo, who combined neatly inside the box to beat Williams. But Sundowns had the final say as Katlego Ntsabeleng and Lebo Mothiba linked up for the fifth goal to complete a commanding performance.
Confirmed line-ups:
Mamelodi Sundowns: Williams, Mudau, Khoza, Cupido, Mokoena, Mdoba, Allende, Matthews, Shalulile, Santos, Reisinho
Subs: Onyango, Adams, Sales, Aubaas, Lethlaku, Kekana, Lunga, Ntsabeleng, Mothiba
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