Zwane: 'This group will be remembered after 10 years'

Veteran midfielder Themba Zwane has opened up on how he keeps Mamelodi Sundowns focused and motivated ahead of their decisive CAF Champions League clash against AS FAR Rabat.

The Brazilians travelled to Morocco with a narrow advantage after edging AS FAR 1-0 in the first leg at Loftus Versfeld Stadium last Sunday, courtesy of Aubrey Modiba’s strike.

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The return leg at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Sunday is set to decide who will be crowned continental champions in the 2025/26 campaign.

For Zwane, this stage is nothing new, as the 36-year-old was part of the Sundowns squad that lifted the continental crown under Pitso Mosimane in 2016.

Mshishi, as he is affectionately known, and Denis Onyango are the only two players in the current squad who know exactly what it takes to go all the way.

Zwane's experience has seen him take on a leadership role in the dressing room ahead of the game, where he constantly reminds his teammates of what is at stake.

"I always try to remind them how big it is and the excitement that we are going to get as a team and as a country," Zwane told the club's media department.

"We have to push ourselves and try to make history. I think this group will be remembered after 10 years.

"Overall, it is just about reminding them how important this game is and to push ourselves."

The Thembisa-born star also had a message for Sundowns fans, urging them to continue backing the team as they chase continental glory.

"To the supporters at home, they must keep on supporting us," he added.

"We really appreciate the messages on social media. We will do our best to win the game and lift this trophy to make them happy.

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"To those travelling to come support us, we really appreciate the effort. We hope to see you at the stadium singing and pushing us like always.

"We always feel good when we see them in the stands."