Mamelodi Sundowns - SC Casablanca: The opposing styles of play
Mamelodi Sundowns coach, Jerry Tshabalala knows facing Moroccan opposition in the CAF Women's Champions League is never an easy outing for his side.
Twice, the South Africans met AS Far, and they did not experience victory (0-0 in 2021 and a 4-0 defeat). The South African champions seem to struggle against the north Africans.
A lot will be required for them to overcome this hurdle when they take on SC Casablanca on Wednesday who are looking for their first victory following their 1-1 stalemate in against hosts, Athletico Abidjan.
“We saw the victory of Darkoa over our home side AS Far. It made us sad but it shows that nothing is to be taken for granted in women's football in Africa. We are going to play our hearts out and go all-out against Sundowns, without” declared SC Casablanca striker, Chaymaa Mourtaji during the pre-match press conference on Tuesday.
Mamelodi Sundowns star, Chuene Morifi said it would be a tactical battle against the Casablanca.
“They have a similar style of play (As of AS Far). It's good for us to face them at this stage of the competition. They have their own tactical strengths and we have our own strengths as well as experience. This will be a tactical battle”, said Morifi.
What the coaches had to say:
Mehdi El Quichori - SC Casablanca coach
"Everything is possible. Nothing has been decided yet. Mamelodi Sundowns are a great team and we respect their history in this CAF Women's Champions League, but on Wednesday, we will go for the best result against them. We know what we are capable of. There will be opportunities during the match and it’s up to us to seize the opportunities.”
Mamelodi Sundowns - Jerry Tshabalala coach
“We are aware that this will not be an easy match. However, our experience will come into play. Casablanca, like most North African teams, will impose a physical challenge on us.”
Statistic:
SC Casablanca goalkeeper Imane Abdelahad made seven saves in her first match against Athletico Abidjan. She faced 8 shots at goal and had a success rate of 87.5%. Which constitutes a record for the moment.