Mamelodi Sundowns outclassed Nigerian champions Remo Stars 5-1 in their CAF Champions League second preliminary round tie at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Remo Stars entered the game hoping to recover from recent domestic struggles, including a loss to Katsina United their third defeat in four matches. However, the South African giants, runners-up in last season’s CAF Champions League, wasted no time asserting dominance.
Tashreeq Matthews opened the scoring 12 minutes into the encounter with a brilliant strike from the edge of the box. As Remo tried to settle, Sundowns doubled their advantage three minutes before halftime through Namibian striker Peter Shalulile, who calmly slotted past goalkeeper Obassa Adebiyi.
Second-Half Onslaught
The second half saw Sundowns maintain complete control of the game. In the 61st minute, Khuliso Mudau broke down the flank and set up Portuguese midfielder Miguel Reisinho for a simple tap-in to make it 3-0.
Remo Stars attempted to respond, with Samson Olasupo coming close when his effort rattled the crossbar in the 72nd minute. But Sundowns were not done yet. Arthur Sales added a fourth goal moments later with a composed finish that silenced the home fans.
Coach Daniel Ogunmodede’s men managed a consolation through Olasupo, who found the net to bring temporary relief to the hosts. But Sundowns had the final say when Tsiki Nsabeleng scored his first goal for the club in the 85th minute, completing the 5-1 rout.
Return Leg in Pretoria
The return leg is scheduled for October 26 at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria, where Remo Stars face a monumental task to overturn the deficit.
This loss further highlights Nigeria’s ongoing struggles in continental competitions. Despite producing top domestic talents, no Nigerian team has lifted the CAF Champions League trophy since Enyimba’s triumph in 2004.
Remo Stars, now in their fourth continental campaign, are yet to reach the group stage of the prestigious competition a dream that now hangs by a thread after a disappointing night in Abeokuta.
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