Mamelodi Sundowns have achieved a commanding 5-1 away victory over Remo Stars in the CAF Champions League preliminary round first leg, asserting continental dominance in Abeokuta, Nigeria.
South African champions Sundowns have overwhelmed Nigeria’s Remo Stars in Sunday’s first leg, placing one foot in the group stage of Africa’s top club competition.
Tashreeq Matthews opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a curling effort from range. Peter Shalulile doubled the lead before halftime, punishing defensive lapses with his trademark composure.
After the interval, Sundowns tightened their grip. Miguel Reisinho struck from close range in the 61st minute following Khuliso Mudau’s clever assist. Arthur Sales added a fourth with a sharp finish in the 74th minute, further deflating the home crowd.
Remo Stars managed a late response through Samson Olasupo in the 78th minute, but their brief spark was quickly extinguished. Katlego Ntsabeleng restored Sundowns’ four-goal margin seconds later, sealing a 5-1 rout and leaving the hosts deflated.
Coach Miguel Cardoso’s side dictated possession, controlled tempo, and outclassed their Nigerian counterparts. Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams contributed a crucial save early in the second half, preserving Sundowns’ momentum.
The result marks one of the heaviest home defeats for a Nigerian club in CAF competition. Fans in Abeokuta were left subdued, describing the performance as “humbling” on social media. South African supporters, meanwhile, hailed the display as a “masterclass in African football.”
Sundowns now carry a four-goal cushion into the return leg on October 26 at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria. A draw or even a narrow defeat will be enough to confirm progression to the group stage.
For Remo Stars, the task ahead is monumental. Their focus now shifts to domestic recovery and damage control, with tactical adjustments expected before the second leg.
