Manqoba Mngqithi, the head coach of Mamelodi Sundowns, has delivered a strong message to Moroccan powerhouses Raja Club Athletic in anticipation of their CAF Champions League clash.

Recently, the Tshwane club managed to secure a 1-1 draw during their Champions League group stage encounter against AS FAR in Morocco on Saturday.

Iqraam Rayners, a former Stellenbosch striker, netted the sole goal for the Brazilians. Currently, Mngqithi’s team sits in second place with two points from two matches, while group leaders AS FAR are ahead with four points.

The Brazilians are preparing to take on fellow Moroccan titans Raja in their upcoming match at Loftus Versfeld Stadium this Sunday. Mngqithi warns Raja to get ready for a tough competition, emphasizing that his team proves to be a strong contender when playing at home.

“This is another match we need to analyze very attentively,” Mngqithi remarked.

“However, I assure you that playing at home presents a significant challenge for any rival. Our current priority is to achieve victories, and I believe we have positioned ourselves rather well.

“Additionally, the draw between Raja and AS Maniema Union has played to our advantage in the standings. While a win against AS FAR would have been ideal, one must accept the outcomes as they come in football.

“I am very pleased with my players’ performances, and I expect an even stronger display at home.”

In other news, the former coach of Golden Arrows shared his optimism about defeating AS FAR in South Africa during the second round, as long as they maintain their recent form.

“It will be a different match; that’s a promise I can make,” Mngqithi asserted.

“If we can mirror our performance against AS FAR in their stadium, backed by their enthusiastic supporters, I am confident we will prevail.”

This forthcoming match is scheduled for January 2025 and will conclude the group stage for both teams. Prior to that, the Brazilians will head to DR Congo to compete against AS Maniema Union.