Allende discusses Downs pressure amid CAF final push

Mamelodi Sundowns star Marcelo Allende has reacted to his club's crucial first-leg victory over AS FAR Rabat in the CAF Champions League final at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Sunday evening.

Masandawana secured a slender advantage after a 1-0 win ahead of the decisive second leg in Morocco next Sunday as they continue their pursuit of a second continental crown.

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The Brazilians are chasing their second Champions League title after famously winning the competition in 2016 under Pitso Mosimane.

Moreover, the Tshwane powerhouse also came close last season but fell short in the final against Egyptian side Pyramids FC.

Allende, who has been one of the key figures in Miguel Cardoso' star-studded side this season, believes that the narrow victory and clean sheet could prove vital heading into the return leg.

"It's an important win. We did not concede a goal at home. It is so important and we have all the week now for preparing in the best way as a collective," Allende told journalists.

The Chilean midfielder also acknowledged the pressure and demands that come with representing a club of Sundowns' stature, especially during a demanding campaign filled with domestic and continental commitments.

Downs have competed in four domestic competitions this season but are yet to lift silverware, while their Betway Premiership hopes now depend on Orlando Pirates dropping points against Orbit College.

"We are coming from a lot of games in this last part of the season," added the 27-year-old.

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"But we know we are Mamelodi Sundowns, we know we have a lot of games, a lot of competition and we want to take each one home.

"This is the price when you play in this type of club. I think everyone is clear on this and we have a good mentality and a good idea."